Impact of pre-brachytherapy indwelling urinary catheters on comfort and psychological well-being patients with cervical cancer

This study aimed to explore the effects of indwelling urinary catheters before brachytherapy on patient comfort and psychological stress in cervical cancer patients. A total of 140 patients with stage IIA or higher cervical cancer were randomly assigned to two groups: The indwelling catheter group (n = 70) and the non-indwelling catheter group (n = 70). Radiation exposure risks were compared using dose-volume histograms. Brachytherapy, a high-dose-rate micro-radiation therapy, was performed using the Utrecht applicator. Tumor treatment efficacy and levels of norepinephrine (NE), cortisol (Cor), and adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) were measured. The patient’s fear, psychological state, comfort, and quality of life were evaluated before and after the intervention. Results showed that radiation exposure to healthy tissues was lower in the indwelling catheter group (P < 0.05), with a reduced rate of excessive radiation exposure compared to the non-indwelling catheter group. Before the intervention, the indwelling catheter group had higher Fear of Progression Questionnaire-Short Form (FoP-Q-SF) scores, but no significant difference was observed between groups after the intervention. Tumor size was smaller in the indwelling catheter group, and treatment outcomes were significantly better. Levels of NE, Cor, and ACTH were higher in the indwelling catheter group. Comfort scores were lower in the indwelling catheter group, but their quality of life was better compared to the non-indwelling catheter group. In conclusion, the use of indwelling catheters in brachytherapy for cervical cancer improves treatment outcomes and quality of life. While it may cause temporary discomfort and psychological stress, no long-term negative effects were observed.