EFFECTIVENESS OF PROPHYLACTIC USE OF TAMSULOSIN FOR THE PREVENTION OF URINARY RETENTION FOLLOWING SURGERIES UNDER SPINAL ANAESTHESIA

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.