A randomized trial comparing bladder infusion with standard catheter removal after transurethral resection of the prostate.
OBJECTIVE: To examine the effect of bladder infusion before catheter removal on patients' readiness for discharge and the day of discharge after transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP). PATIENTS AND METHODS: The study comprised 75 consecutive patients undergoing TURP who were randomized to either have their catheter removed in the standard manner (38 patients), or to undergo bladder infusion before a trial of voiding (ToV) on the second day after TURP (37 patients). RESULTS: In those undergoing bladder infusion, seven (19%) patients were discharged on the same day as their ToV, compared with five (13%) in the standard group. Of the 75 patients, 15 (68%) were discharged by the third day after TURP whether or not the bladder had been filled. In the infusion group, 23 (62%) were ready for discharge on the same day as their TOV, compared with only 14 (37%) in the standard group (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Bladder infusion before a ToV after TURP significantly increases the rate of readiness for discharge, allowing an early decision to discharge on the second day in a large proportion of patients.