Bladder leaks after hip surgery

Dear Dr. Roach: I am a male, 83, and my bladder leaks since I had a hip replacement surgery. The surgeon used a catheter during the surgery, and when it was removed, I could not urinate. I went home with a Foley catheter. Five days later, it was removed, and I have dripped ever since. It has been over two months, and leakage has not abated. I use absorbent underpants and pads that I change four times a day. I also urinate 100-300 milliliters several times during the day and at night.

This is my third joint replacement in the past four years, and nothing like this happened in the previous two surgeries,. What might have happened, and what are my options other than an inserted catheter? — W.A.M.

Dear W.A.M.: Inability to urinate after surgery is common, especially in men. I am concerned the Foley catheter may have caused complications. Urine infection, bladder spasm and bladder contracture are complications of a catheter. Damage to a nerve during surgery is possible.

You should have seen a urologist when this started, and it is urgent you get in now. The urologist will evaluate for these possibilities. A longterm indwelling catheter is probably not your best option.

Dear Dr. Roach: After I wear my cloth mask, I spray it with disinfectant, and hang it up to dry for 24 hours instead of washing it. Do you think that’s good enough? — H.B.

Dear H.B.: I am sure the spray will disinfect the mask, but I would recommend against this method. The residual chemicals left on your mask after spraying are not good for you to breath in or to rub up against your face. Just washing your mask by hand with hot water and soap is fine.