Preoperative tamsulosin effect on postoperative urinary retention following spinal surgery: A randomized controlled trial

Background

Current study aims to investigate pre-surgical medical intervention on the reduction of POUR incidence in patients undergoing spine surgery.

Method

The study was a single center double-blind randomized placebo clinical trial. Participants were individuals over 18 years old who underwent spinal surgery at the Educational and Therapeutic Hospital between 2020 and 2023. Inclusion criteria included the ability to provide informed consent and follow the study schedule, while exclusion criteria included certain medical conditions, current medication use, and inability to take oral medication after surgery.

Results

The study enrolled 100 patients. There was no significant difference in age or gender distribution between the tamsulosin and placebo groups, but the tamsulosin group had a lower prevalence of diabetes. The duration of surgery was shorter in the tamsulosin group, and there was no significant difference in the surgical site. The tamsulosin group had significantly less post-void residual volume on the eighth day of the study, but there were no significant differences in urine output volume during surgery or residual urine volume before or after surgery.

Conclusion

Tamsulosin may be effective in preventing postoperative urinary retention (POUR), but its effectiveness in treating established POUR is uncertain. The Tamsulosin group had significantly lower post-void residual volume after spine surgery. Considering the low risk of adverse effects, Tamsulosin could be considered for high-risk patients. However, patients should be aware of potential risks and seek medical attention if they experience adverse effects. Further research is needed to determine the best dosage and duration of treatment.