Enhanced Xiao-Xu-Ming-Tang Hot Compress Reduces Catheter-Related Bladder Discomfort

Overview

This multicenter, randomized, double-blind study evaluated an improved Xiao-Xu-Ming-Tang hot compress for preventing moderate-to-severe catheter-related bladder discomfort (CRBD) after transurethral ureteral laser lithotripsy. The treatment significantly reduced the incidence and severity of CRBD without systemic side effects, improving patient comfort and satisfaction.

Background

Catheter-related bladder discomfort (CRBD) affects 47–95% of patients with indwelling catheters post-anesthesia, causing urgency, suprapubic pain, and increasing postoperative complications including delirium. Current preventive methods such as nerve blocks and pharmacologic agents are effective but costly and complex. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) hot compresses, particularly an improved Xiao-Xu-Ming-Tang formula combined with salt and applied as a warm compress, offer a simple, cost-effective alternative by promoting local blood flow and delivering active compounds transdermally to relieve bladder smooth muscle spasms.

Data Highlights

Key Findings

• The improved Xiao-Xu-Ming-Tang hot compress significantly reduced the incidence of moderate-to-severe CRBD 30 minutes after surgery compared to control.
• Patients receiving the TCM hot compress reported lower pain scores on the Numerical Rating Scale.
• The intervention was well tolerated with no increase in skin discomfort or adverse effects at the application site.
• Vital signs remained stable in both groups, indicating safety of the hot compress treatment.
• Patient satisfaction was higher in the group treated with the Xiao-Xu-Ming-Tang hot compress.

Clinical Implications

The improved Xiao-Xu-Ming-Tang hot compress represents a safe, non-invasive, and cost-effective method to prevent and alleviate moderate-to-severe CRBD in patients undergoing procedures requiring indwelling catheters. Its ease of application and lack of systemic side effects make it a practical adjunct to standard postoperative care to improve patient comfort and reduce complications related to bladder discomfort.

Conclusion

This study supports the use of an enhanced Xiao-Xu-Ming-Tang hot compress as an effective and safe intervention to reduce catheter-related bladder discomfort postoperatively, offering a valuable addition to current CRBD management strategies.

References

1. Peng Peichu et al. -- Effectiveness and Safety of an Enhanced Xiao-Xu-Ming-Tang Hot Compress in Alleviating Catheter-Related Bladder Discomfort