The impact of post-operative voiding trial on length of stay following laparoscopic hysterectomy: A prospective, randomized control trial

Objective: Same day discharge (SDD) is feasible following laparoscopic hysterectomy (TLH) in gynecologic oncology patients resulting in low complication and re-admission rates. Following vaginal surgery, backfill or active voiding trials have been shown to reduce hospital discharge with a catheter. The aim of this study is to determine if performing an active backfill voiding trial (AVT) vs. passive voiding trial (PVT) leads to expedited discharge following TLH. Methods: Subjects scheduled for SDD TLH were enrolled and randomized to an AVT or a PVT. The primary outcome was length of stay. Secondary outcomes include time to void, catheter replacement, admission to the extended recovery unity (ERU), post-operative pain, and complications. Results: 121 patients were randomized: 60 to an AVT and 61 to a PVT. There was a statistically significant reduction in median length of stay for patients undergoing an AVT vs. PVT (271.5 minutes vs. 329 minutes, P = 0.015). Median time to void was also decreased with an AVT vs. PVT (30 minutes vs. 289 minutes, P < 0.001). There was no difference in median pain score (2), catheter replacement, peri-operative complications, or overnight admissions between the two groups. Conclusion: There is a significant reduction in time to void and total length of stay in patients randomized to a backfill voiding trial following TLH with no increased patient discomfort. While the numbers of post-operative admissions were low and underpowered to detect a difference in admission rate, these data will help to streamline post-operative care for SDD gynecologic oncology patients.