Our Summary

The study looked at the use of preventative ureteral catheters during colectomy surgery (removal of part of the colon) and whether they help to prevent damage to the ureter (the tube that carries urine from the kidneys to the bladder). This is because there’s a debate about whether they are actually helpful. The study found that out of over 51,000 patients, the catheters were used in 4.9% of cases and were most often used in cases of diverticulitis (a digestive disease). The results showed that patients with the catheters had higher rates of some complications, like infections and blockage of the intestines, but the catheters did seem to lower the risk of ureteral injury. The authors suggest more research is needed to figure out which patients might benefit the most from using these catheters during surgery.

FAQs

  1. What was the purpose of the study on the use of preventative ureteral catheters during colectomy surgery?
  2. What were the findings of the study on the use of ureteral catheters during colectomy surgery?
  3. What further research does the study suggest regarding the use of ureteral catheters during colectomy surgery?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor might tell a patient undergoing a colectomy that the use of preventative ureteral catheters during surgery may help to lower the risk of ureteral injury, but they may also increase the risk of other complications. It’s important to discuss the potential benefits and risks with your healthcare team to determine if this option is right for you.

Suitable For

Patients who may be recommended colectomy include those with:

  1. Colorectal cancer
  2. Inflammatory bowel disease (such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis)
  3. Diverticulitis
  4. Fecal incontinence
  5. Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP)
  6. Chronic constipation or megacolon
  7. Intestinal obstruction or perforation
  8. Colon polyps that are at high risk of becoming cancerous
  9. Severe gastrointestinal bleeding that cannot be controlled by other means

Ultimately, the decision to recommend colectomy will depend on the specific condition and individual circumstances of the patient.

Timeline

  • Before colectomy:
  1. Patient experiences symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, constipation, diarrhea, and blood in stool.
  2. Patient undergoes diagnostic tests such as colonoscopy, CT scan, and blood tests to confirm the need for surgery.
  3. Patient consults with a surgeon to discuss the risks and benefits of colectomy and to prepare for the procedure.
  • After colectomy:
  1. Patient undergoes the surgical procedure to remove part of the colon.
  2. Patient is closely monitored in the hospital for complications such as infection, bleeding, and bowel obstruction.
  3. Patient gradually resumes eating and drinking, and is encouraged to walk and move around to aid in recovery.
  4. Patient may experience temporary changes in bowel function, such as increased frequency of bowel movements or diarrhea.
  5. Patient is discharged from the hospital and continues to recover at home, following a strict diet and medication regimen as prescribed by the healthcare team.
  6. Patient attends follow-up appointments with the surgeon to monitor healing and address any concerns or complications.
  7. Patient may undergo rehabilitation or physical therapy to regain strength and mobility.
  8. Patient gradually resumes normal activities and adjusts to any long-term changes in bowel function.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is a colectomy and why do I need it?
  2. What are the potential risks and benefits of using a preventative ureteral catheter during my colectomy surgery?
  3. How often do you use preventative ureteral catheters during colectomy surgeries?
  4. What are the potential complications associated with using a ureteral catheter?
  5. Are there alternative methods or techniques that can be used to prevent ureteral injury during colectomy surgery?
  6. How will the presence of a ureteral catheter affect my recovery and post-operative care?
  7. Will the use of a ureteral catheter increase the length of my hospital stay or recovery time?
  8. What factors will you consider when deciding whether or not to use a ureteral catheter during my colectomy surgery?
  9. Are there any specific guidelines or recommendations regarding the use of preventative ureteral catheters during colectomy surgeries?
  10. Do you have experience using ureteral catheters during colectomy surgeries, and what has been your experience with their effectiveness and safety?

Reference

Authors: Coakley KM, Kasten KR, Sims SM, Prasad T, Heniford BT, Davis BR. Journal: Dis Colon Rectum. 2018 Jan;61(1):84-88. doi: 10.1097/DCR.0000000000000976. PMID: 29215477