https://www.ajog.org/article/S0002-9378(18)32285-3/abstract

Journal: Am J Obstet Gynecol 2018

Author: Gaby Moawad, Paul Tyan, Cherie Marfori, Elias Abi Khalil, Daniel Park

Hysterectomy is one of the most common surgical procedures performed each year with substantial related health care costs. This trial studied the effect of postoperative bladder backfilling in the operating room and its effect on early postoperative patient care and related cost.

Based on the findings of this randomized clinical trial, postoperative bladder backfilling  shortens the time needed for patients to void in the postanesthesia care unit, resulting in shorter postanesthesia care unit stay and resultant cost savings. Conservatively projecting our findings on minimally invasive hysterectomy procedure is estimated to result in $69 million to $139 million (USD) per year in savings. Initiating similar investigations in other ambulatory surgical fields will likely result in a more substantial impact.