ISC in women following urogynaecologic surgery

Urinary retention is a common problem for women following surgery, and a significant complication for those who have undergone urogynaecologic surgery, with prevalence estimated between 2.5% and 24% (Dorflinger and Monga, 2001). Postoperative urinary retention (POUR) can lead to bladder distention, causing altered bladder function, urinary tract infections and poor surgical outcomes. Intermittent self-catheterisation (ISC) for women is generally considered preferable to indwelling catheterisation wherever possible. This article explores the role of ISC for women following surgery.