Which of the following is a risk factor for acute urinary retention?

A history of pelvic surgery is considered a significant risk factor for acute urinary retention due to the potential complications that arise from such procedures. Pelvic surgery can result in anatomical changes or nerve damage that may impair bladder function or the normal mechanics of urination. For instance, it may affect the pelvic floor muscles or the nerves controlling the bladder, leading to urinary retention postoperatively.

In contrast, age under 30 years is generally associated with lower risks for urinary retention, as younger individuals typically have better bladder and sphincter function. Short surgery duration usually does not contribute to the risk of urinary retention, as longer surgeries are often more associated with complications. Lastly, the use of topical anesthetics does not have a significant impact on bladder function compared to the potential complications following pelvic surgery. These aspects highlight why a history of pelvic surgery prominently elevates the likelihood of experiencing acute urinary retention.