Should a patient empty their bladder before surgery?

In most cases, it is important for a patient to empty their bladder before surgery. A full bladder can interfere with the surgical procedure and may increase the risk of complications. Some reasons why a patient should empty their bladder before surgery include:

- To avoid the need for a catheter during surgery: A catheter is a thin tube that is inserted into the bladder to drain urine. While catheters can be necessary in certain situations, they can also increase the risk of infection. Emptying the bladder before surgery can help reduce the need for a catheter.

- To reduce the risk of injury to the bladder: A full bladder can be more vulnerable to injury during surgery, especially if the surgery is being performed in the abdominal or pelvic area. Emptying the bladder can help reduce this risk.

- To improve the visibility during surgery: A full bladder can make it more difficult for the surgeon to see the surgical site, which can increase the risk of complications. Emptying the bladder can help improve visibility and make the surgery safer.

- To reduce the risk of post-operative urinary retention: Urinary retention is a condition in which a person is unable to empty their bladder completely. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including the use of anesthesia during surgery. Emptying the bladder before surgery can help reduce the risk of urinary retention.

However, in some cases, it may be necessary for a patient to have a full bladder during surgery. For example, if the surgery is being performed on the bladder itself or if the surgeon needs to measure the amount of urine that the patient produces. In these cases, the doctor will provide specific instructions to the patient.

It is important for patients to follow the instructions of their doctor before surgery, including emptying their bladder if required. This can help ensure the safety and success of the surgical procedure.