Effectiveness of Prophylactic Use of Tamsulosin for the Prevention of Urinary Retention Following Surgeries Under Spinal Anaesthesia
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Background:Postoperative urinary retention (POUR) is a common complicationfollowing surgeries under spinal anesthesia, leading to patient discomfort, delayedmobilization, and increased risk of catheterization. Tamsulosin, a selective α1Aadrenergic receptor blocker, has been shown to reduce bladder outlet resistance andmay help prevent POUR.Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of prophylactic tamsulosin in preventingpostoperative urinary retention in patients undergoing elective surgeries under spinalanesthesia.Methods: This prospective, observational, comparative cross-sectional study wasconducted at the Department of General Surgery, GIMS, Gadag, over 18 months(August 2023–February 2025). A total of 150 patients aged 18–60 years scheduledfor elective surgery under spinal anesthesia were randomly allocated into two groups.Group A received tamsulosin 0.4 mg 14 hours, 2 hours before surgery, and 6 hourspostoperatively; Group B received standard preoperative care without tamsulosin.The incidence of POUR was assessed based on suprapubic discomfort, palpablemass, inability to void within 12 hours, and requirement of catheterization.Results: POUR occurred in only 1 patient (1.33%) in the tamsulosin group comparedto 13 patients (17.33%) in the placebo group (p = 0.0007). Similarly, catheterizationwas required in 1.33% of patients in the tamsulosin group versus 17.33% in theplacebo group. No statistically significant differences were noted in baselinecharacteristics such as age, serum creatinine, or prostate volume between the groups.Conclusion: Prophylactic administration of tamsulosin significantly reduces theincidence of postoperative urinary retention and catheterization in patientsundergoing surgeries under spinal anesthesia. Its inclusion in perioperative protocolscould enhance postoperative recovery and patient comfort.
Author: Dr Manikanta S Garapati
Language: English
Subfield: Urology
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W6930970214
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