WP1.10 - Are we Appropriately Consenting Patients for the Risks of Post Operative Urinary Retention following Groin Hernia Surgery?

Abstract

Abstract Aims Consent is a fundamental process within surgery. General Medical Council (GMC) guidance advises that any recognised risks of harm resulting from a procedure should be discussed. Post-operative urinary retention (POUR) is a frequently encountered risk following groin hernia surgery, yet it can be missed when consenting. We aimed to review how frequently POUR occurs following groin hernia surgery in our hospital, along with how frequently it was consented for. Methods Retrospective data was collected on all patients undergoing planned groin hernia surgery in a single centre over a 6-month period between March and August 2023 . Data was collected on demographics, post-operative complications including POUR, and any other complications requiring hospital re-admission within 30 days. Consent forms were reviewed to identify whether POUR was documented as a risk. Results 128 groin hernia surgeries were carried out over the 6-month period. 13 patients (10.2%) experienced POUR, which was the most common complication in this group of patients. 7 of these patients did not have POUR documented as a risk factor on their consent. With only 46% overall having POUR documented as a risk factor on their consent. Conclusion Despite POUR being a common complication following groin hernia surgery, patients are often not being informed of this as part of the consent process. As over half of those patients who did experience POUR were not warned about this potential complication. Considering its frequency and potential impact on patients, improvements in consenting for POUR should be made.