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.