Effects of Routine Catheterisation on Urinary Tract Infection Rates After Minor Gynaecological Surgeries: A Prospective Observational Study

Introduction: Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) are among the most common healthcare-associated infections and significantly impact morbidity, healthcare costs, and quality of care. Catheterassociated Urinary Tract Infections (CAUTIs) constitute up to 40% of hospital-acquired infections globally, primarily driven by indwelling catheter use. Routine catheterisation during minor gynaecological surgeries is a common practice to prevent postoperative urinary retention. However, prolonged catheter use increases the risk of CAUTIs. Aim: To compare the UTI rates between catheterised and non-catheterised groups among women undergoing minor gynaecological surgeries. Materials and Methods: This prospective observational study was conducted at Dr. DY Patil Medical College, Pune, Maharashtra, India from July to December 2024, and included 150 women undergoing minor gynaecological surgeries. Participants were divided into two equal groups: catheterised (n=75) and non-catheterised (n=75). Demographic and clinical data were collected. UTIs were diagnosed based on clinical symptoms and significant bacteriuria (>105 Colony Forming Units (CFU)/mL). Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 28.0, with p<0.05 considered significant. Results: The incidence of confirmed UTIs was significantly higher in the catheterised group (21/75; 28%) compared to the non-catheterised group (6/75; 8%) (p<0.001). Escherichia coli was the most common pathogen, identified in 14 of 21 UTI cases in the catheterised group and 3 of 6 cases (50%) in the non-catheterised group. In the non-catheterised group, 5 out of 75 patients (6.7%) experienced urinary retention, which was successfully managed with clean intermittent catheterisation, without increasing UTI risk. Conclusion: Routine catheterisation during minor gynaecological surgeries substantially increases the risk of CAUTIs. Reducing unnecessary catheter use, adhering to evidence-based guidelines, and employing clean intermittent catheterisation are critical strategies to minimise UTI risk and improve patient outcomes.