Bethanechol chloride and urinary retention in anorectal surgery: a prospective randomised study

Between July 1982 and June 1983, 300 patients undergoing anorectal operations for benign conditions were selected to evaluate the role of Bethanechol Chloride [BC] in the prevention of Urinary Retention [UR]. One hundred fifty patients received 6 doses of BC, 25mg. Q 6hours postoperatively. The other 150 patients were used as control. All patients were otherwise managed identically. Major UR was significantly lowered in patients receiving BC. Other factors contributing to UR were also evaluated. The incidence of UR was found to be high in patients having Hemorrhoidectomy, in patients undergoing general anesthesia and in the 40-49 yr. age group