Post Operative Urinary Retention

Overview

Postoperative urinary retention is a common surgical and anesthesia complication. Urinary retention refers to inability to voluntarily empty the bladder either partially or completely. It can be a sudden or a long standing problem.

Signs and Symptoms

Difficulty to pass urine,Dribbling of urine, Urge incontinence, Nocturia, Sensation of full bladder, Discomfort in lower abdomen

Common Causes

Orthopedic surgery, Caesarean section, Anorectal surgery, Pelvic surgery, Long acting anesthetics, Epidural anesthesia, Accidental trauma to the nerve or bladder during surgery

Risk Factors

Older age group, Male gender, Preexisting urinary retention, Comorbidities such as diabetes or stroke, Neurological problems, Certain medications used during perioperative period

Investigation Techniques

Physical examination, Urine input output chart, Ultrasound

Treatment and Prevention

Catheterization, Alpha receptor agonists, Muscarinic agonist, Naloxone