Nonrandomized Clinical Trial of the Effectiveness of a Laxative Treatment Protocol to Time of First Bowel Movement After Uterine Artery Embolization Procedure: A Pilot Study

Purpose: The purpose of this pilot study was to determine the efficacy of a proactive laxative protocol for constipation prevention in patients undergoing uterine artery embolization (UAE). Design: A nonrandomized clinical trial. Methods: A nonrandomized trial study design was piloted using a convenience sample of 35 patients undergoing UAE in the course of 1 year. Findings: There was a statistically significant difference (P < .0001) in time of first bowel movement after UAE when patients followed a proactive laxative protocol. A combination of senna and stool softener taken twice a day for 2 days preoperatively was associated with a shorter time to first bowel movement postoperatively. Conclusions: This pilot study supports the benefits of a proactive laxative protocol in helping achieve procedural recovery uncomplicated by constipation in patients undergoing UAE. (c) 2020 American Society of PeriAnesthesia Nurses. Published by Elsevier, Inc. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

This pilot study showed that a proactive laxative protocol can help prevent constipation and facilitate recovery in patients undergoing uterine artery embolization (UAE).