Perioperative fasting in adults and children: guidelines from the European Society of Anaesthesiology. Eur J Anaesthesiol. 2011;28:556-569. [PMID: 21712716 DOI: 10.1097/eja.0b013e3283495ba1]

Taste preference of patients shortly after surgery in the Post Anaesthesia Care Unit (PACU)

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Early postoperative oral feeding is safe and enhances recovery after surgery. To facilitate oral intake directly after surgery in the Post Anaesthesia Care Unit (PACU) and to enhance its associated benefits, knowledge on what patients would like to eat and/or drink is essential. Data on taste preferences in the immediate postoperative period is scarce, therefore this study investigated the taste preference of patients directly after surgery in the PACU.

METHODS

A prospective observational study in adult patients scheduled for elective surgery under general anaesthesia. Taste preference was our primary outcome, for which we used the Macronutrient and Taste Preference Ranking Task (MTPRT) questionnaire. As secondary outcomes we asked additional questions to evaluate specific food characteristics separately, including consistency, texture, and temperature of food/drinks. Finally, we evaluated the appetite of our patients, using descriptive statistics, and analysing differences in the MTPRT liking scores.

RESULTS

We included 57 surgical patients. The MTPRT liking data showed that our patients liked low-energy products with a sweet taste the most. The MTPRT ranking data showed a dislike for high-protein products. Data from the additional questionnaire revealed that our patients seemed to like food products with soft, juicy, crispy, hot and cold characteristics. The majority of patients (n = 44, 79 %) did have an appetite for food directly after surgery during their PACU admission.

CONCLUSION

This study showed that postoperative patients in the PACU tended to like low-energy food products with a sweet taste the most. In addition, this study showed that patients seemed to favour a broad variety of food products directly after surgery. Due to our small sample size the results should be interpreted with caution, but they do provide initial insights to help improve PACU food services, and thereby can contribute to enhance early postoperative oral intake. Registered at NTR (trialregister.nl) with study ID Trial NL9048.

Chewing gum on postoperative oral Malodor in patients undergoing general anesthesia: a randomized non-inferiority trial

BACKGROUND

We aimed to determine whether preoperative chewing gum is non-inferior to Chlorhexidine (CHX) mouthwash in reducing halitosis in patients undergoing elective general anesthesia with endotracheal intubation.

METHODS

We conducted a randomized, single-blind, non-inferiority controlled trial involving patients undergoing surgery requiring endotracheal intubation for ≤ 3 h. Participants were randomly assigned to either the CHX mouthwash group (Group M) or the chewing gum group (Group N). Thirty minutes before general anesthesia, patients in Group M rinsed their mouths with 10 ml of CHX mouthwash, while those in Group N chewed Trident mint gum. The primary outcome was the incidence of halitosis in both groups, assessed before endotracheal intubation and at extubation.

RESULTS

A total of 733 patients were included, with 365 patients in Group M and 368 patients in Group N. The incidence of halitosis in both groups was significantly reduced compared to baseline. Before extubation, the improvement in halitosis was greater in Group N than in Group M (P < 0.05). After extubation, the improvement in halitosis in Group N was non-inferior to that in Group M (Z = 1.96, 95% CI: -0.0898 to 0.0944, p = 0.0023).

CONCLUSIONS

In patients undergoing elective general anesthesia with endotracheal intubation, chewing gum was found to be non-inferior to CHX mouthwash in improving postoperative halitosis.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Chictr.org.cn ChiCTR2400082035 (date of registration: 19/03/2024).

Multimodal Prehabilitation in Major Abdominal Surgery-Rationale, Modalities, Results and Limitations

Recent evidence revealed that an adequate preoperative physiological reserve is crucial to overcome surgical stress response. Consequently, a new concept, called prehabilitation, emerged, aiming to improve the preoperative functional reserve of patients who will undergo major abdominal surgery. During the interval between diagnosis and surgery, a multimodal approach consisting of physical exercise and nutritional and psychological support could be employed to enhance physiologic reserve. Physical activity interventions aim to improve aerobic capacity, muscle strength and endurance. Nutritional support addressing malnutrition and sarcopenia also contributes to the achievement of the above-mentioned goals, particularly in patients undergoing cancer-related procedures. Psychological interventions targeting anxiety, depression and self-efficacy, as well as risk behavior modification (e.g., smoking cessation) seem to enhance recovery. However, there is a lack of standardization regarding these interventions, and the evidence about the impact of this multidisciplinary approach on the postoperative outcomes is still contradictory. This narrative review focuses on the physiological basis of surgical stress response and on the efficacy of prehabilitation, reflected mainly in the length of hospitalization and rates of postoperative complications. Multidisciplinary collaboration between surgeons, nutritionists, psychologists and physiotherapists was identified as the key to the success of prehabilitation programs. Synergizing prehabilitation and ERAS protocols significantly improves short-term surgical outcomes. Recent well-designed, randomized clinical trials revealed that this approach not only enhanced functional reserve, but also decreased the rates of postoperative complications and enhanced patient's overall quality of life, emphasizing the importance of its implementation in routine, elective, surgical care.

Prospective study of the efficacy of PCNL under local anesthesia based on the ERAS concept

Objective

To evaluate the feasibility, safety, and efficacy of local anesthesia applied to percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) under Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) for treating upper urinary tract stones.

Materials and methods

This study was a prospective, single-center randomized controlled study in which the patients were randomly divided into two groups: 40 in the ERAS PCNL under local anesthesia (ERAS-LA) group and 40 in the ERAS PCNL under general anesthesia (ERAS-GA) group). The primary indicators were stone-free rate; the secondary outcomes were intraoperative and postoperative complications, intraoperative and postoperative VAS pain scores and postoperative stress response indicators. A meta-analysis was also performed using RevMan 5.4 software by searching relevant literatures in PubMed/Medline, Web of Science and Embase.

Results

The stone clearance rates at 48 h were similar between the two groups [ERAS-LA: 85.0% (34/40) vs. ERAS-GA: 87.5% (35/40), P = 0.800] and both 90% at 1 month. The incidence of surgical complications was similar between the two group. The intraoperative pain score in ERAS-LA group was 2.90 ± 0.74, and the postoperative 24-h pain score was comparable between the two groups (ERAS-LA: 2.65 ± 1.35 vs. ERAS-GA: 2.63 ± 0.98, P = 0.925), with good pain control. The mean total operative time was lower in ERAS-LA group than in ERAS-GA group (68.15 ± 24.11 min vs. 82.125 ± 20.42 min, P = 0.006). Postoperative hemoglobin change values (3.38 ± 3.00 × 109/L vs. 5.22 ± 4.18 × 109/L, P = 0.027) and stress response factors including C-reactive protein (8.39 ± 7.46 mg/L vs. 10.47 ± 10.30 mg/L, P = 0.035) and interleukin-6 (5.40 ± 1.50 pg/ml vs. 10.57 ± 1.82 pg/ml, P = 0.041) were significantly lower in ERAS-LA group. The mean catheter retention, fistula retention, and postoperative hospital stay were all significantly lower in ERSA-LA group than in ERSA-GA group (2.3%, 2.9%, and 5.08 days vs. 3.33%, 4.38%, and 6.35 days, P < 0.05). The results of the meta-analysis were similar to that of our study.

Conclusions

Local anesthesia applied to ERAS-managed PCNL have a comparable stone clearance rates and complication rates, and a faster postoperative recovery, lower surgical stress, length of stay, anesthesia costs and hospital costs than general anesthesia.

Clinical Trial Registration

http://www.medresman.org.cn, identifier (ChiCTR2100045681).

Guidelines for antenatal and preoperative care in cesarean delivery: Enhanced Recovery After Surgery Society recommendations (part 1)-2025 update

BACKGROUND

Enhanced recovery after cesarean delivery protocols include evidence-based interventions designed to improve patient experience, pregnancy, and neonatal outcomes while reducing healthcare-related costs. This is the first update of the Enhanced Recovery After Surgery Society guidelines for antenatal and preoperative care before cesarean delivery after the original publication in 2018.

METHODS

Interventions were selected based on expert consensus using the Delphi method. An updated literature search was conducted in September 2024 using the Embase, PubMed, MEDLINE, EBSCO CINAHL (Cumulative Index of Nursing and Allied Health Literature), Scopus, and Web of Science databases. Targeted searches were performed by a medical librarian to identify relevant articles published since the 2018 Enhanced Recovery After Surgery Society guidelines publication, which evaluated each antenatal and preoperative enhanced recovery after cesarean delivery intervention, focusing on randomized clinical trials and large observational studies (≥800 patients) to maximize search feasibility and relevance. Following a review of the evidence, a consensus was reached regarding the quality of evidence and the strength of recommendation for each proposed intervention according to the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) system.

RESULTS

The 6 recommended enhanced recovery after cesarean delivery interventions are (1) antenatal pathway patient education for scheduled caesarean delivery (evidence low to very low, recommendation strong); (2) multidisciplinary medical and surgical staff education regarding enhanced recovery after cesarean delivery support, intervention implementation, and measurement (evidence low, recommendation strong); (3) optimization of the medical care for pregnant patients with comorbid conditions, such as anemia, obesity, hypertension, prepregnancy and gestational diabetes, smoking (tobacco, cannabis, vaping), congenital heart disease, epilepsy, autoimmune disease, and asthma (evidence moderate, recommendation strong); (4) abdominal skin preparation with chlorhexidine gluconate impregnated cloth (evening before scheduled cesarean delivery) (evidence moderate; recommendation weak); (5) the duration of preoperative fasting based on the content intake (evidence low, recommendation weak); (6) the use of a preoperative, nonparticulate carbohydrate drink (evidence low-moderate, recommendation strong).

CONCLUSION

The first 3 recommendations are for use in the antenatal period (10-38 weeks of gestation), which allow for the optimization of patient comorbidities, whereas the remaining 3 recommendations are for preoperative interventions (skin preparation, preoperative fasting directives, and preoperative carbohydrate supplementation). Educational tools for cesarean delivery with well-designed shared decision-making focus on comorbidity management should be developed. These management tasks are viewed as routine care; however, the measurable success and impact have clinical variance. The enhanced recovery after cesarean delivery goal for patients who are undergoing a scheduled caesarean delivery is to maximize the quality of the pregnant patient's recovery and the fetal-neonatal outcome.

[Myths in Anaesthesia - Liberal Clear Liquid Fasting Regimens]

International guidelines recommend encouraging patients to drink up to two hours before induction of anaesthesia. But why are patients still fasting for up to a median of 12 hours? Are liberal clear liquid fasting regimens harmful to patients or considered "best clinical practice"? Gastric emptying of clear liquids is very fast, exponential and proportional to the current filling of the stomach. There is no evidence of a link between drinking clear liquids and the risk of aspiration. As a result, more and more hospitals are allowing their patients to drink clear liquids until they are called for surgery. Since 2021, "SipTilSend" has become best practice in the UK and the concept of fasting cards has been awarded by patient safety organisations in 2024.

Aspiration risk and strategic approach for patients receiving GLP-1 receptor agonists undergoing elective surgery

Perioperative management of patients receiving a glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1 RA) remains challenging for the anesthesiologist. Despite the approval of GLP-1 RAs 2 decades ago, the recent reports of aspiration and postoperative pulmonary complications drew attention to this group of medications and resulted in multiple societal guidelines that would provide recommendations for anesthesiologists and proceduralists on the appropriate perioperative management of GLP-1 RAs. However, despite these guidelines and proposed options, there was a lack of adequate evidence to support holding versus continuing the medication, as well as data related to the role of gastric ultrasound in that decision-making process. The release of multiple societal guidelines and studies evaluating the impact of GLP-1 RAs on perioperative outcomes resulted in more controversy and uncertainty for the clinician anesthesiologist to follow. The ultimate goal for perioperative management of these medications is to evaluate an individual patient's risk of aspiration, rather than assuming the risk is low when holding the medication appropriately or high if not holding it. Furthermore, it is unclear whether holding these types of medicines or unnecessary postponing of surgery may result in adverse outcomes. In this narrative review, we present a summary of the existing literature on the topic with a focus on the risk of aspiration and a recommendation for perioperative management to include the utilization of gastric ultrasound for surgery patients based on their risks.

Reducing Fasting Time Before Anesthesia for Pediatric Bronchoscopy: A Quality Improvement Project

PURPOSE

To reduce fasting time before anesthesia for pediatric bronchoscopy through a quality improvement project.

DESIGN

A quality improvement project design was used.

METHODS

This quality improvement project was conducted between May 2022 and April 2023. The project team adopted the Intergrated Promoting Action on Reasearch Implementation in Health Services (i-PARIHS) theoretical framework, combined with Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound (SMART) objectives and the Plan-Do-Check-Act (PDCA) cycle, to implement a series of improvement measures at a large women and children's hospital in Southwest China. Barrier analysis for fasting times and relevant balancing measures were identified. Data were analyzed using control charts and statistical process control methods.

FINDINGS

A total of 830 children were involved in this project. The results showed that the new fasting policy did not reduce the preoperative fasting time (8.11 ± 1.98 hours vs 8.41 ± 2.11 hours). Subgroup analysis showed that fasting time for fluid diet such as breastfed and formula patients decreased (P = .019, 95%CI: [-0.48, 0.83]). Correlation analysis indicated that fasting time was related to the number of surgeries (r = 0.342, P = .013), patient weight (r = 0.280, P = .044), and general anesthesia (r = 0.732, P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

Due to cultural differences, education levels, medical resources, operational difficulties, parental cooperation, and policy management issues, this quality improvement project revealed the complexity of reducing preprocedural fasting times for pediatric bronchoscopy, making the localization of fasting guidelines difficult to implement in Southwest China. It emphasized the importance of understanding various factors influencing fasting durations and highlighted the need for further targeted interventions to address these factors effectively. These insights will inform future efforts to optimize fasting policies and improve patient and family experiences.

Context factors in clinical decision-making: a scoping review

BACKGROUND

Clinical decision support systems (CDSS) frequently exhibit insufficient contextual adaptation, diminishing user engagement. To enhance the sensitivity of CDSS to contextual conditions, it is crucial first to develop a comprehensive understanding of the context factors influencing the clinical decision-making process. Therefore, this study aims to systematically identify and provide an extensive overview of contextual factors affecting clinical decision-making from the literature, enabling their consideration in the future implementation of CDSS.

METHODS

A scoping review was conducted following the PRISMA-ScR guidelines to identify context factors in the clinical decision-making process. Searches were performed across nine databases: PubMed, APA PsycInfo, APA PsyArticles, PSYINDEX, CINAHL, Scopus, Embase, Web of Science, and LIVIVO. The search strategy focused on combined terms related to contextual factors and clinical decision-making. Included articles were original research articles written in English or German that involved empirical investigations related to clinical decision-making. The identified context factors were categorized using the card sorting method to ensure accurate classification.

RESULTS

The data synthesis included 84 publications, from which 946 context factors were extracted. These factors were assigned to six primary entities through card sorting: patient, physician, patient's family, institution, colleagues, and disease treatment. The majority of the identified context factors pertained to individual characteristics of the patient, such as health status and demographic attributes, as well as individual characteristics of the physician, including demographic data, skills, and knowledge.

CONCLUSION

This study provides a comprehensive overview of context factors in clinical decision-making previously investigated in the literature, highlighting the complexity and diversity of contextual influences on the decision-making process. By offering a detailed foundation of identified context factors, this study paves the way for future research to develop more effective, context-sensitive CDSS, enhancing personalized medicine and optimizing clinical outcomes with implications for practice and policy.

Enhanced Recovery After Surgery for patients undergoing radical cystectomy: Surgeons' perspectives and recommendations ten years after its implementation

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) guidelines for Radical Cystectomy (RC) were published over ten years ago. Aim of this systematic review is to update ERAS recommendations for patients undergoing RC and to give an expert opinion on the relevance of each single ERAS item.

METHODS

A systematic review was performed to identify the impact of each single ERAS item on RC outcomes. Embase and Medline (through Pubmed) were searched systematically. Relevant articles were selected and graded. For each ERAS item, a level of evidence was determined. An e-Delphi consensus was then performed amongst an international panel with renowned experience in RC to provide recommendations based on expert opinion.

KEY FINDINGS AND LIMITATIONS

Preoperative medical optimization and avoiding bowel preparation are highly recommended. Robotic-assisted RC with intracorporeal urinary diversion is moderately recommended and can help in applying other ERAS items, such as early mobilization. Medical thromboprophylaxis should be administered and nasogastric tube should be removed at the end of surgery. Perioperative fluid restriction as well as opioid-sparing anesthesia protocols should be implemented. Generally, consensus was reached on most ERAS items, with the exception of epidural anesthesia (no consensus), resection site drainage (consensus against), and type of urinary drainage. Limitations include the lack of a multidisciplinary approach to the present consensus, giving however a highly specialized surgical opinion on ERAS.

CONCLUSIONS

and clinical implications: The current study updates ERAS recommendations for patients undergoing RC and suggests application of ERAS by a panel of experts in the field.

Gastric POCUS, an emergent tool in the assessment of perioperative fasting: Narrative review

Pulmonary aspiration during anaesthesia induction is a serious adverse event that can lead to catastrophic consequences for the patient, including death. Preoperative fasting has so been assessed on the basis of the clinical history and fasting schedules recommended by clinical guidelines. This assessment is not objective, since the presence or absence of gastric contents cannot be guaranteed. Gastric point of care ultrasound (POCUS) is an objective, simple, and rapid method for assessing fasting prior to anaesthesia induction that stratifies risk and aids in decision-making. The aim of this review is to summarize the existing literature on gastric POCUS in the assessment of preoperative fasting. For this purpose, the Pubmed and Embase were searched for relevant studies published between 2014 and 2024.

Application of enhanced recovery after surgery in pediatric patients with obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome

BACKGROUND

Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) has demonstrated effectiveness in accelerating recovery and reducing complications across surgical fields, with limited application in Ear-Nose-Throat surgeries. Obstructive Sleep Apnea-Hypopnea Syndrome (OSAHS), a prevalent condition affecting pediatric patients, calls for innovative management due to its impact on health and the need for surgical interventions like tonsillectomy.

OBJECTIVE

The present study aimed to investigate the efficacy of ERAS in pediatric patients with OSAHS.

METHODS

Review and analyze 1100 cases of pediatric patients with OSAHS who underwent plasma-coblation tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy using nasal endoscopy from June 2016 to June 2022 in our hospital. Among these cases, a total of 564 patients were managed according to ERAS theory, while 536 patients were treated with classical theory. The incidence of preoperative discomfort, postoperative pain, bleeding, and other complications between the two groups were compared.

RESULTS

ERAS group showed comparable preoperative-discomfort rates to the control (P = 0.799). However, ERAS patients exhibited significantly lower pain scores at 24-, 48-, and 72-h post-operation (P < 0.05). Mental state scores were similar between ERAS and control 4 h pre-surgery (P > 0.05), but notably lower in ERAS at 30 min pre-op and 6-, 12-, and 24-h post-operation (P < 0.05). ERAS had lower complication rates and intra/postoperative bleeding, quicker ambulation/oral intake, and shorter hospital stays than control (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

ERAS management in patients with OSAHS resulted in notable reductions in postoperative pain and incidence of complications, along with improved postoperative recovery and shorter hospital stays.

Assessment of the adherence to perioperative nutritional care protocols in Brazilian hospitals: The PreopWeek study

OBJECTIVES

The study (PreopWeek) aimed to assess the perioperative nutritional care for major surgical patients in Brazilian hospitals, focusing on adherence to emerging multimodal protocols like Enhanced Recovery After Surgery and Acceleration of Total Postoperative Recovery.

METHODS

An observational cross-sectional study was conducted in Brazilian hospitals enrolled voluntarily from June 19 to June 23, 2023 (convenience sample). Data were collected through patient interviews and medical records review.

RESULTS

Data from 219 patients up to the fifth postoperative day or postoperative discharge across 24 hospitals were analyzed. Only three hospitals (12.5%) had established institutional perioperative protocols. Most of the patients were female (60.3%) and over 60 y old (81.7%) and underwent gastrointestinal (34.7%) or orthopedic (33.3%) surgeries. General and nutritional preoperative counseling was provided to a respective 82.2% and 62.6% of the patients. Only 25.7% of the patients had preoperative fasting for up to 3 h, and 28.8% received carbohydrate-rich supplements. Immunonutrition was not received by 43.8% at any point. Although most started postoperative refeeding within 24 h (81.7%), 39.4% started with a liquid diet and 70.6% reported postoperative immobilization in the first 24 h. Notable differences were observed between hospitals with and without protocols. Hospitals with institutional protocols reported significantly more preoperative exercises and nutritional counseling and higher adherence rates for all the perioperative protocols.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study demonstrates a lack of adherence to the multimodal protocols, even in hospitals with institutional protocols. Future educational programs are necessary to improve this result.

Preoperative Oral Carbohydrate for Lower Extremity Arthroplasty: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of preoperative oral carbohydrate (CHO) loading on postoperative insulin resistance, hospital stay, and pain in patients undergoing elective arthroplasty.

METHODS

Clinical randomized controlled trials on the effects of preoperative oral CHO loading in patients undergoing elective hip and knee arthroplasty were searched on PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Embase, Chinese Biomedical Literature Database, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) from inception to February 2024. The Cochrane Risk of Bias Assessment Tool was used to evaluate the quality of the enrolled randomized controlled trials.

RESULTS

There were 16 papers included. Meta-analysis unveiled that compared with the control group, the test group had notably reduced postoperative anxiety scores [standardized mean difference = -0.06, 95% CI (confidence interval) (-0.42 to 0.30)] and complication rates [OR (odds ratio) = 0.64, 95% CI (0.41 to 0.99)] and enhanced postoperative active GLP-1 levels after preoperative oral CHO loading [standardized mean difference = 0.46, 95% CI (0.06 to 0.86)]. There was no marked difference in postoperative blood glucose levels, hospitalization time, insulin levels, and pain score.

CONCLUSIONS

Available evidence suggests that preoperative oral CHO loading in patients undergoing arthroplasty may reduce related complications, improve postoperative active GLP-1 levels, and alleviate postoperative anxiety.

Study protocol of the PRINCESS trial-PReoperative INtermittent fasting versus CarbohydratE loading to reduce inSulin resiStance versus standard of care in orthopaedic patients: a randomised controlled trial

INTRODUCTION

Surgical trauma induces a metabolic stress response, resulting in reduced insulin sensitivity and hyperglycaemia. Postoperative insulin resistance (IR) is associated with postoperative complications, and extended preoperative fasting may further aggravate the postoperative metabolic stress response. Nutritional strategies, such as carbohydrate loading (CHL), have been successfully used to attenuate postoperative IR. Recent evidence suggests that time-restricted feeding (TRF), a form of intermittent fasting, improves IR in the general population, even after a short period of TRF. We hypothesise that TRF, as well as CHL, improve postoperative IR.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

This open-label, single-centre, randomised controlled trial will compare the effect of short-term preoperative TRF, CHL and standard preoperative fasting on perioperative IR. A total of 75 orthopaedic patients presenting for elective intermediate to major surgery at a Dutch academic hospital will be randomly assigned to a control group (standard preoperative fasting), a TRF group or a CHL group. The primary outcome is postoperative IR, based on the updated homeostasis model assessment of IR, on the first day after surgery. Statistical analyses are performed using Student's t-tests or Mann-Whitney U tests.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

The local medical ethics committee of the Amsterdam UMC, the Netherlands, approved the trial protocol in January 2023 (NL81556.018.22). No publication restrictions apply, and the results of the study will be disseminated through a peer-reviewed journal.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT05760339.

Pulmonary aspiration during pregnancy or immediately postpartum in the UK: A population-based case-control study

Background

Pulmonary aspiration of gastric contents is the most frequent cause of death associated with complications of airway management during general anaesthesia. Pregnancy increases aspiration risk owing to factors including delayed gastric emptying and increased intragastric pressure. We describe the incidence, risk factors, management, and outcomes of maternal pulmonary aspiration in pregnancy in the UK.

Methods

We conducted a population-based surveillance and case-control study. Between September 2013 and August 2016, all UK consultant-led obstetric units prospectively identified cases of pulmonary aspiration among parturient women using a pre-defined case definition, and reported them via the UK Obstetric Surveillance System (UKOSS). Controls (n=1982) were obtained from four UKOSS studies conducted between 2005 and 2014. We calculated the incidence of pulmonary aspiration using 2013-2015 maternities as the denominator. We explored potential risk factors for aspiration using univariable logistic regression and described outcomes.

Results

We identified 12 cases of pulmonary aspiration, giving an incidence of 5.2 per 1,000,000 maternities (95% CI 2.69-9.09). Cases were significantly less likely than controls to be multiparous (unadjusted odds ratio [uOR] 0.255, 95% CI 0.069-0.946), and significantly more likely to undergo caesarean section (uOR 24.89, 95% CI 3.18-194.85) and to receive general anaesthetic for caesarean section (p<0.001). Gestation was significantly shorter in cases than controls (uOR 0.782, 95% CI 0.702-0.870). Women who aspirated were significantly more likely to be admitted to the intensive therapy unit than controls (p<0.001). Infants of women who aspirated had significantly lower Apgar scores and were more likely to be admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit or to be stillborn compared with infants of women in the control group.

Conclusions

Pulmonary aspiration is rare in UK obstetric anaesthetic practice; however, it remains a risk of general anaesthesia. Despite a large study population, our analyses lacked power to evaluate many potential risk factors. Future research should focus on developing methods to accurately identify pregnant women at risk of aspiration.

Gastric emptying in pregnancy and its clinical implications: a narrative review

Delayed gastric emptying increases the risk of pulmonary aspiration during anaesthesia for Caesarean delivery. Our aim in conducting this narrative review was to consider the effect of pregnancy on gastric emptying. The indices of gastric emptying after liquids, solids, or both and when fasted in the various trimesters of pregnancy, at the time of Caesarean delivery, in labour, and the postpartum period were assessed. We considered 32 observational studies, one nonrandomised controlled study, and 22 randomised controlled trials. The evidence indicates that, compared with the nonpregnant state, gastric emptying is decreased in the first but not the second and third trimesters. Before elective Caesarean delivery, carbohydrate drink or tea with milk leads to no difference in gastric cross-sectional area at 2 h relative to fasting or water. Following a standard fast for elective Caesarean delivery, patients may still have high-risk gastric contents. Compared with the nonpregnant state and third trimester, gastric emptying is delayed in labour, although the choice of analgesia has modifying effects. Systemic opioids delay gastric emptying. Epidural analgesia increases gastric emptying, but not back to baseline. Intrathecal analgesia delays gastric emptying relative to epidural analgesia. Women in labour who have eaten solids in the last 8 h still have high-risk gastric contents present in the stomach. The evidence with respect to the postpartum period is conflicting. In conclusion, inconsistencies in the literature reflect the unpredictability of gastric emptying in pregnancy and underline the potential value of gastric ultrasound in women who are pregnant.

Airway management may influence postoperative ventilation need in preterm infants after laser eye treatment

BACKGROUND

Retinopathy of prematurity is treated with laser photocoagulation under general anaesthesia with intubation using endotracheal tube (ETT), which carries a risk for postoperative mechanical ventilation (MV). Laryngeal mask airway (LMA) may provide a safe alternative. We assessed the need for postoperative MV in preterm infants who received LMA versus ETT.

METHODS

In this single-centre, retrospective cohort study, preterm infants who underwent laser photocoagulation between 2014-2021 were enroled. For airway management, patients received either LMA (n = 224) or ETT (n = 47). The outcome was the rate of postoperative MV.

RESULTS

Patients' age were 37 [35;39] weeks of postmenstrual age, median bodyweight of Group LMA was higher than Group ETT's (2110 [1800;2780] g versus 1350 [1230;1610] g, respectively, p < 0.0001). After laser photocoagulation, 8% of Group LMA and 74% of Group ETT left the operating theatre requiring MV. Multiple logistic regression revealed that the use of LMA and every 100 g increase in bodyweight significantly decreased the odds of mechanical ventilation (OR 0.21 [95% CI 0.07-0.60], and 0.73 [95% CI 0.63-0.84], respectively). Propensity score matching confirmed that LMA decreased the odds of postoperative MV (OR 0.30 [95% CI 0.11-0.70]).

CONCLUSION

The use of LMA is associated with a reduced need for postoperative MV.

IMPACT

Using laryngeal mask airway instead of endotracheal tube for airway management in preterm infants undergoing general anaesthesia for laser photocoagulation for treating retinopathy of prematurity could significantly decrease the postoperative need for mechanical ventilation. According to our current understanding, this has been the largest study investigating the effect of laryngeal mask airway during general anaesthesia in preterm infants. Our study suggests that the use of laryngeal mask airway is a viable alternative to intubation in the vulnerable population of preterm infants in need of laser treatment.

Preoperative assessment of adults undergoing elective noncardiac surgery: Updated guidelines from the European Society of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care

BACKGROUND

When considering whether a patient is fit for surgery, a comprehensive patient assessment represents the first step for an anaesthetist to evaluate the risks associated with the procedure and the patient's underlying diseases, and to optimise (whenever possible) the perioperative surgical journey. These guidelines from the European Society of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine (ESAIC) update previous guidelines to provide new evidence on existing and emerging topics that consider the different aspects of the patient's surgical path.

DESIGN

A comprehensive literature review focused on organisation, clinical facets, optimisation and planning. The methodological quality of the studies included was evaluated using the GRADE (Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation) methodology. A Delphi process agreed on the wording of recommendations, and clinical practice statements (CPS) supported by minimal evidence. A draft version of the guidelines was published on the ESAIC website for 4 weeks, and the link was distributed to all ESAIC members, both individual and national, encompassing most European national anaesthesia societies. Feedback was gathered and incorporated into the guidelines accordingly. Following the finalisation of the draft, the Guidelines Committee and ESAIC Board officially approved the guidelines.

RESULTS

In the first phase of the guidelines update, 17 668 titles were initially identified. After removing duplicates and restricting the search period from 1 January 2018 to 3 May 2023, the number of titles was reduced to 16 774, which were then screened, yielding 414 abstracts. Among these, 267 relevant abstracts were identified from which 204 appropriate titles were selected for a comprehensive GRADE analysis. Additionally, the study considered 4 reviews, 16 meta-analyses, 9 previously published guidelines, 58 prospective cohort studies and 83 retrospective studies. The guideline provides 55 evidence-based recommendations that were voted on by a Delphi process, reaching a solid consensus (>90% agreement).

DISCUSSION

This update of the previous guidelines has covered new organisational and clinical aspects of the preoperative anaesthesia assessment to provide a more objective evaluation of patients with a high risk of postoperative complications requiring intensive care. Telemedicine and more predictive preoperative scores and biomarkers should guide the anaesthetist in selecting the appropriate preoperative blood tests, x-rays, and so forth for each patient, allowing the anaesthetist to assess the risks and suggest the most appropriate anaesthetic plan.

CONCLUSION

Each patient should have a tailored assessment of their fitness to undergo procedures requiring the involvement of an anaesthetist. The anaesthetist's role is essential in this phase to obtain a broad vision of the patient's clinical conditions, to coordinate care and to help the patient reach an informed decision.

Effect of Preoperative Gum Chewing on Postoperative Nausea and Vomiting in Women Undergoing Robotic Laparoscopic Surgery for Uterine Myomas: A Randomized Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND

Postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) remains a frequent and uncomfortable complication in women undergoing robotic gynecological procedures. Despite the use of various preventive strategies, PONV continues to negatively impact recovery and increase healthcare expenses. This study aimed to evaluate whether the preoperative use of sugar-free chewing gum could effectively minimize the dependence on anti-emetic drugs in women undergoing robot-assisted laparoscopic surgery for uterine myomas.

METHODS

In this randomized, single-blind study, 92 adult women scheduled for robot-assisted laparoscopic surgery were enrolled. The participants were randomly assigned to one of two groups: a gum-chewing group, which was instructed to chew sugar-free gum for 15 min in the preoperative holding area, or a control group that did not chew gum. The primary outcome was the requirement for anti-emetic medication within the first hour after surgery, when the patient was in the post-anesthesia care unit (PACU). Secondary outcomes included the overall frequency of anti-emetic use. To assess the intervention's effectiveness independent of any other factors, no prophylactic anti-emetics were administered during surgery.

RESULTS

Of the 92 participants, 89 completed the study, with 44 assigned to the gum-chewing group and 45 to the control group. The gum-chewing group showed a significantly lower rate of PONV, requiring anti-emetic treatment (79.5%), compared to the control group (95.6%). Additionally, the control group demonstrated a higher overall need for anti-emetic medications. Notably, there were no reported adverse effects, such as jaw discomfort, dental injuries, or gastric regurgitation, in either group.

CONCLUSIONS

Chewing sugar-free gum for 15 min prior to surgery was found to be a safe, simple, and effective method to reduce the occurrence of PONV in women undergoing robot-assisted laparoscopic surgery for benign uterine tumors. This non-invasive intervention reduced the reliance on anti-emetic drugs and improved patient comfort, without introducing risks. These findings suggest that preoperative gum chewing could be routinely implemented in clinical settings to enhance surgical outcomes.

Assessing Full Stomach Prevalence with Ultrasound Following Preoperative Fasting in Diabetic Patients with Dysautonomia: A Comparative Observational Study

BACKGROUND

Traditionally, diabetics have been considered patients with a high risk of aspiration due to having delayed gastric emptying; However, the evidence concerning residual gastric volume (GV) in fasting diabetic patients is inconsistent. This study aimed to compare the fasting GV of diabetic patients with or without dysautonomia with control patients scheduled for elective surgery using gastric ultrasound.

METHODS

This bicentric prospective single-blinded case-control study was conducted at 2 university hospitals in Spain. Patients aged over 18 years, classified as American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) physical statuses I to III and having similar fasting statuses, were included in the study. The primary outcome was to compare the prevalence of risk stomach using the Perlas gastric content grading scale evaluated by ultrasound in the 3 groups. Secondary outcomes included the measurement of cross-sectional area (CSA) and GV in the right lateral decubitus (RLD) position, as well as the prevalence of solid gastric residue.

RESULTS

A total of 289 patients were recruited for the study, comprising 145 diabetic patients (83 of whom had dysautonomia) and 144 patients in the control group. The percentage of patients classified as Perlas grade 2 was 13.2% in the control group, 16.1% in diabetic patients without dysautonomia, and 22.9% in diabetic patients with dysautonomia ( P = .31). Antral CSA was significantly higher in diabetic patients with dysautonomia (6.5 [4.8-8.4]) compared to the control group (5.4 [4.0-7.2]; P = .04). However, no significant differences were observed between groups in residual GV. Among diabetic patients with dysautonomia, 12% exhibited solid gastric residue, which was twice the percentage observed in diabetic patients without dysautonomia (4.8%) and 3 times higher than that in the control group (3.5%; P = .03). The presence of dysautonomia was associated with an increased odds ratio of solid gastric residue (odds ratio [OR], 3.37; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.28-8.87; P = .01) after adjusting for confounding factors.

CONCLUSIONS

This study offers insights into the relationship between dysautonomia in patients with diabetes mellitus and the presence of full stomach, underscoring the significance of preoperative gastric ultrasound evaluation in managing perioperative risks in this population.

Effect of various perioperative semaglutide interruption intervals on residual gastric content assessed by esophagogastroduodenoscopy: A retrospective single center observational study

BACKGROUND

Recent evidence suggests that perioperative semaglutide use is associated with increased residual gastric content (RGC) and risk of bronchoaspiration under anesthesia. We compared the occurrence of increased RGC in semaglutide users and non-users undergoing esophagogastroduodenoscopy to define the time interval at which RGC becomes comparable between groups.

METHODS

This was a single-center retrospective electronic chart review at a tertiary hospital. Patients undergoing esophagogastroduodenoscopy under deep sedation/general anesthesia between July/2021-July/2023 were included and divided into two (SG = semaglutide, NSG = non-semaglutide) groups, according to whether they had received semaglutide within 30 days prior to the esophagogastroduodenoscopy. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression were performed to explore which factors were associated with increased RGC, defined as any amount of solid content, or > 0.8 mL/Kg (measured from the aspiration/suction canister) of fluid content.

RESULTS

Among the 1094 (SG = 123; NSG = 971) patients included, increased RGC was observed in 56 (5.12%), being 25 (20.33%) in the SG and 31 (3.19%) in the NSG (p < 0.001). Following weighted analysis, the presence of ongoing digestive symptoms (nausea/vomiting, dyspepsia, and/or bloating/abdominal distension) pre-esophagogastroduodenoscopy [OR = 15.1 (95% confidence interval (CI) 9.85-23.45)] and the time intervals of preoperative semaglutide interruption < 8 days [OR 10.0 (95%CI 6.67-15.65)] and 8-14 days [4.59 (95%CI 2.91-7.37)] remained significantly associated with increased RGC. Following inverse probability treatment weighting adjustment including a composite variable 'time intervals of semaglutide interruption' versus 'presence of ongoing digestive symptoms', only time intervals > 14 days and without digestive symptoms showed no association with increased RGC [OR = 0.77 (95%CI 0.22-2.01)].

CONCLUSIONS

Perioperative semaglutide use is associated with increased RGC in patients undergoing elective esophagogastroduodenoscopy. Preoperative discontinuation of > 21 days and > 14 days in patients with and without ongoing digestive symptoms, respectively, resulted in RGC similar to non-semaglutide users.

Preoperative free access to water compared to fasting for planned cesarean under spinal anesthesia: a randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Contemporary guidance for preoperative feeding allows solids up to 6 hours and clear fluids up to 2 hours before anesthesia. Clinical trial evidence to support this approach for cesarean delivery is lacking. Many medical practitioners continue to follow conservative policies of no intake from midnight to the time of surgery, especially in pregnant women.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to evaluate the pragmatic approach of permitting free access to water up to the call to dispatch to the operating theater vs fasting from midnight in preoperative oral intake restriction for planned cesarean delivery under spinal anesthesia on perioperative vomiting and maternal satisfaction.

STUDY DESIGN

A randomized controlled trial was conducted in the obstetrical unit of the University of Malaya Medical Centre from October 2020 to May 2022. A total of 504 participants scheduled for planned cesarean delivery were randomized: 252 undergoing preoperative free access to water up to the call to dispatch to the operating theater (intervention group) and 252 undergoing fasting from midnight (fasting arm). The primary outcomes were perioperative vomiting and maternal satisfaction. Analyses were performed using t test, Mann-Whitney U test, and chi-square test, as appropriate.

RESULTS

Of note, 9 of 252 patients (3.6%) in the intervention group and 24 of 252 patients (9.5%) in the control group had vomiting at up to 6 hours after completion of cesarean delivery (relative risk, 0.38; 95% confidence interval, 0.18-0.79; P=.007), and the maternal satisfaction scores (0-10 visual numerical rating scale) were 9 (interquartile range, 8-10) in the intervention group and 5 (interquartile range, 3-7) in the control group (P<.001). Assessed before dispatch to the operating theater, feeling of thirst was reported by 69 of 252 patients (27.4%) in the intervention group and 134 of 252 patients (53.2%) in the control group (relative risk, 0.52; 95% confidence interval, 0.41-0.65; P<.001), capillary glucose levels were 4.8±0.7 mmol/L in the intervention group and 4.9±0.8 mmol/L in the control group (P=.048), and preoperative intravenous fluid hydration was commenced in 49 of 252 patients (19.4%) in the intervention group and 76 of 252 patients (30.2%) in the control group (relative risk, 0.65; 95% confidence interval, 0.47-0.88; P=.005). In the operating theater, ketone was detected in the catheterized urine in 38 of 252 patients (15.1%) in the intervention group and 78 of 252 patients (31.0%) in the control group (relative risk, 0.49; 95% confidence interval, 0.25-0.59; P<.001), and the numbers of doses of vasopressors needed to correct hypotension were 2.3±1.7 in the intervention group and 2.7±2.2 in the control (P=.009). The recommendation rates for preoperative oral intake regimen to a friend were 95.2% (240/252) in the intervention group and 39.7% (100/252) in the control group (relative risk, 2.40; 95% confidence interval, 2.06-2.80; P<.001), in favor of free access to water. Other assessed maternal and neonatal outcomes were not different.

CONCLUSION

Compared with fasting, free access to water in planned cesarean delivery reduced perioperative vomiting and was strongly favored by women. In addition, several pre- and intraoperative secondary outcomes were improved. However, postcesarean delivery recovery and neonatal outcomes were not different.

Relationship between residual gastric content and peri-operative semaglutide use assessed by gastric ultrasound: a prospective observational study

BACKGROUND

Semaglutide is a long-acting glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist known to delay gastric emptying. Despite a growing body of evidence, its peri-operative safety profile remains uncertain, particularly with regard to the risk of increased residual gastric content and aspiration of gastric contents during anaesthesia. We hypothesised that semaglutide interruption of ≤ 10 days before elective surgical procedures is insufficient to reduce or normalise the residual gastric content, despite fasting intervals that comply with current guidelines.

METHODS

In this prospective observational study, we recruited patients who received pre-operative once-weekly subcutaneous semaglutide within 10 days of the procedure (semaglutide group) and control patients who had not been exposed to semaglutide (non-semaglutide group). On the day of surgery, all patients underwent pre-operative point-of-care gastric ultrasound to evaluate their residual gastric content. Increased residual gastric content was defined as any solid content or > 1.5 ml.kg-1 of clear fluids as assessed by gastric ultrasound.

RESULTS

We recruited 220 patients, 107 in the semaglutide group and 113 in the non-semaglutide group. Increased residual gastric content was found in 43/107 patients (40%) in the semaglutide group and 3/113 (3%) in the non-semaglutide group (p < 0.001). In propensity-weighted analysis, semaglutide use (OR 36.97, 95%CI 16.54-99.32), age (OR 0.95, 95%CI 0.93-0.98) and male sex (OR 2.28, 95%CI 1.29-4.06) were significantly associated with increased residual gastric content. There were no cases of pulmonary aspiration of gastric contents.

CONCLUSION

Pre-operative semaglutide use within 10 days of elective surgical procedures was independently associated with increased risk of residual gastric content on pre-operative gastric ultrasound assessment.

Perioperative fluid management: evidence-based consensus recommendations from the international multidisciplinary PeriOperative Quality Initiative

Fluid therapy is an integral component of perioperative management. In light of emerging evidence in this area, the Perioperative Quality Initiative (POQI) convened an international multiprofessional expert meeting to generate evidence-based consensus recommendations for fluid management in patients undergoing surgery. This article provides a summary of the recommendations for perioperative fluid management of surgical patients from the preoperative period until hospital discharge and for all types of elective and emergency surgery, apart from burn injuries and head and neck surgery. Where evidence was lacking, recommendations for future research were generated. Specific recommendations are made for fluid management in elective major noncardiac surgery, cardiopulmonary bypass, thoracic surgery, neurosurgery, minor noncardiac surgery under general anaesthesia, and critical illness. There are ongoing gaps in knowledge resulting in variation in practice and some disagreement with our consensus recommendations. Perioperative fluid management should be individualised, taking into account the type of surgery and important patient factors, including intravascular volume status and acute and chronic comorbidities. Recommendations are made for further research in perioperative fluid management to address important gaps.

A review of enhanced recovery after surgery concept in perioperative radical prostatectomy for prostate cancer

Radical prostatectomy (RP) is the main treatment for early-stage localized prostate cancer. With the improvement of medical technology, radical prostatectomy is mainly performed under laparoscopy or robot assistance. With the continuous deepening of the Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) concept in clinical practice, patients have increasingly high requirements for postoperative recovery. The ERAS concept is of great significance in the perioperative period and has been used in many surgical fields due to its ability to improve prognosis. ERAS has not yet been widely applied in urology and the research progress of other disciplines in ERAS has promoted its development in radical prostatectomy. This review summarizes the key elements of ERAS in the perioperative period of RP, aiming to demonstrate the superiority of ERAS and provide new references and inspirations for urologists.

Role of Point-of-Care Gastric Ultrasound in Advancing Perioperative Fasting Guidelines

Pulmonary aspiration in the perioperative period carries the risk of significant morbidity and mortality. As such, guidelines have been developed with the hopes of minimizing this risk by recommending fasting from solids and liquids over a specified amount of time. Point-of-care ultrasound has altered the landscape of perioperative medicine; specifically, gastric ultrasound plays a pivotal role in perioperative assessment. Further, the advent of glucagon-like-peptide-1 receptor agonists, the widespread use of cannabis, and Enhanced Recovery program carbohydrate beverage presents new challenges when attempting to standardize fasting guidelines. This review synthesizes the literature surrounding perioperative fasting guidelines specifically with regard to the use of point-of-care ultrasound in assessing for gastric contents and minimizing the risk of aspiration.

Comparison of Hospital Stay After Open Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Repair With or Without Enhanced Recovery Protocol

Objective

Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) is a protocol of evidence based practices applied in major surgery. Open aortic aneurysm repair is major surgery in terms of complications and mortality. This study aimed to compare early outcomes of ERAS with a traditional post-operative protocol in patients undergoing elective open aortic surgery.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study was conducted between 2018 - 2022 in two tertiary vascular surgery centres. The ERAS program was routinely implemented in one centre, while the other one used a standard peri-operative protocol. The primary outcome was post-operative length of stay (pLOS). Secondary outcomes were 30 day mortality rate, complications, re-interventions, and re-hospitalisations. Propensity score weighting was used to balance the two groups by comorbidities. Inverse probability of treatment weight (IPTW) was used to estimate the average treatment effect on the treated patients.

Results

A total of 198 patients were enrolled: 128 in the ERAS group (EG) and 70 in the standard group (SG). Mean age was 70.8 ± 6.7 years in EG and 71.1 ± 6.7 in SG (p = 0.39). No significant differences were observed in pre-operative cardiovascular risk factors. The median pLOS was 5 days (IQR 3, 6) in the EG group and 8 days (IQR 6, 11) in the SG group (p < 0.001). No differences in terms of mortality, re-operations, and re-hospitalisations were observed. The IPTW analyses showed a 40% reduction in pLOS and a significant reduction in major complications in EG (OR 0.41, 95% CI 0.26-0.66; p < 0.001). A 45% increase in pLOS in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease was found in both groups.

Conclusion

Enhanced recovery after surgery is safe and feasible for elective open aortic surgery and is associated with earlier hospital discharge without differences in terms of mortality and lower complication rates compared with a standard protocol. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is a major risk factor for an increase in pLOS. The ERAS protocol is promising in terms of resource utilisation.

Clinical effectiveness and safety of preoperative oral carbohydrate loading in patients with diabetes: A systematic review

BACKGROUND

The effectiveness and safety of preoperative oral carbohydrate (POC) for people with diabetes remain controversial.

METHODS

We systematically reviewed studies comparing POC to fasting or placebo in elective surgery for diabetic adults, focusing on gastric volume, postoperative complications, hospital stay, and glycemic control.

RESULTS

Fourteen studies (n = 1870 patients) were included. POC did not significantly increase gastric volume or aspiration risk in well-controlled type 2 diabetes. Effects on perioperative glucose control varied. POC improved patient comfort and reduced preoperative hypoglycemia in gestational diabetes. Limited evidence suggested potential benefits in cardiac surgery patients.

CONCLUSION

POC is safe for well-controlled type 2 diabetics, enhancing comfort and reducing preoperative hypoglycemia without increasing aspiration risk. However, its effects on glucose control and postoperative outcomes vary. Personalized approaches are crucial, particularly for poorly controlled diabetes.

Adherence to Preoperative Fasting Guidelines in Elective Surgical Patients

INTRODUCTION

Preoperative fasting is recommended by international guidelines as a means to minimize the risk of aspiration of gastric content during induction of anesthesia or surgery. Prolonged preoperative fasting is, however, discouraged due to the associated side effects such as dehydration and electrolyte imbalance, which can negatively impact recovery after surgery. An initial quality improvement study revealed poor implementation of the best practice guidelines on preoperative fasting in three departments of a hospital and an institutional action plan was devised to enforce adherence to these guidelines. This present study aimed to assess compliance with the action plan and for that matter, adherence to international consensus on preoperative fasting in three surgical departments.

METHODS

Adult patients undergoing elective cardiac, thoracic, and vascular surgery at a university teaching hospital were surveyed over four months (September October, November, and December of 2023). Data on the length of preoperative fasting was collected using a standardized questionnaire. A total of 306 patients who were scheduled for elective surgery were included in the study.

RESULTS

Of the 306 patients, 139 (45.4%) had vascular surgeries, 108 (35.4%) received cardiac surgeries, and 59 (19.3%) had thoracic surgeries. For clear fluids, the overall median fasting time (Q1, Q3) was 4.5 (2.7, 7.4) hours, and for solid food, 14.5 (12.1, 19.0) hours. Extended abstinence from clear fluids and solid food for more than 12 hours was observed in 43 (14.1%) and 231 (75.5%) instances, respectively, while abstinence from solid food for more than 24 hours was noticed in 40 (13.1%) cases. When compared to patients having operations in the morning, those scheduled for afternoon surgery had longer median fasting periods from clear fluids and solid food, p<0.001: 6.2 (4.0, 12.0) hours vs. 3.4 (2.0, 5.2) hours for clear fluids and 16.7 (12.6, 22.6) hours vs. 13.2 (9.6, 15.2) hours for solid food, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Patients continue to abstain from clear fluids and solid food for extended periods of time, despite the fact that there is worldwide agreement regarding shorter periods of preoperative fasting. Compared to patients undergoing morning surgery, individuals hospitalized for afternoon procedures were more likely to fast for extended periods of time.

Gastric residual volume, safety, and effectiveness of drinking 250 mL of glucose solution 2-3 hours before surgery in gastric cancer patients: a multicenter, single-blind, randomized-controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Carbohydrate drinking 2-3 hours before surgery has been widely adopted in colorectal operations. However, there is little direct evidence regarding its application in gastric cancer surgery. We aimed to evaluate the gastric residual volume, safety, and effectiveness of drinking 250 mL of 5% glucose solution 2-3 hours before elective gastric cancer surgery.

METHODS

We conducted an investigator-initiated, multicenter, randomized-controlled, parallel group, and equivalence trial. Eighty-eight patients with gastric adenocarcinoma were randomized into study or control group. Patients in the control group followed the traditional routine of 6-8 hours preoperative fasting, while those in the study group drank 250 mL of 5% glucose solution 2-3 hours before surgery. Immediately following tracheal intubation, gastric contents were aspirated through gastroscopy. The primary outcome was preoperative gastric residual volume.

RESULTS

Eighty-three patients were eventually analysed in the study (42 in the study group and 41 in the control group). Two groups were comparable at baseline characteristics. There were no statistical differences in residual gastric fluid volumes (35.86 ± 27.13 vs 27.70 ± 20.37 mL, P = 0.135) and pH values (2.81 ± 1.99 vs 2.66 ± 1.68, P = 0.708) between the two groups. Preoperative discomfort was significantly more decreased in the study group than in the control group (thirst score: 1.49 ± 1.23 vs 4.14 ± 2.07, P < 0.001; hunger score: 1.66 ± 1.18 vs 3.00 ± 2.32, P = 0.007). There was no statistical difference in the incidence of postoperative complications (19.05% vs 17.07%, P = 0.815).

CONCLUSIONS

Drinking 250 mL of 5% glucose solution 2-3 hours before surgery in elective gastric cancer patients shows benefits in lowering thirst and hunger scores without increasing gastric residual volume and perioperative complications.

A pre and post interventional audit of an 'apple juice on arrival' protocol to reduce excessive clear fluid fasting times in paediatric patients

Many studies have reported prolonged fasting times in children, associated with negative metabolic and behavioural outcomes. We felt that although our paediatric preoperative clear fluid fasting guideline was only for 2 hours, prolonged fasting still occurred for some patients. We conducted an audit of paediatric fasting times, before and after introducing a new protocol of 'apple juice on arrival', in which, on arrival to the children's ward, all children received 3 ml/kg of apple juice. Data were collected prospectively from patients and their parents for two 4-week periods (before and after introduction of the protocol). Data included fasting time (solids and clear fluids), capillary blood glucose levels, knowledge of fasting requirements and sources of fasting information before surgery. Thirty-nine and 40 children, respectively, were included in each group before and after protocol introduction. Clear fluid fasting times reduced from an average of 9.9 hours pre-intervention to 3.5 hours post intervention (P < 0.01). In addition, mean preoperative blood sugar levels increased from 4.9 mmol/L (pre-intervention group) to 5.6 mmol/L in the post-intervention group (P < 0.001). The implementation of an apple juice on arrival protocol appeared to be an effective method to reduce clear fluid fasting times in children in our institution.

Association between preoperative fasting time and clinical outcomes in surgical patients in a private general hospital

PURPOSE

Surgical patients are routinely subjected to long periods of fasting, a practice that can exacerbate the metabolic response to trauma and impair postoperative recovery. The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between preoperative fasting time and clinical outcomes in surgical patients.

METHODS

An observational, prospective study with a non-probabilistic sample that included patients of both sexes, aged over 18, undergoing elective surgeries. Data were extracted from electronic medical records, and a questionnaire was applied in 48 hours after surgery. Variables related to postoperative discomfort were assessed using an 11-point numeric rating scale.

RESULTS

The sample consisted of 372 patients, and the duration of the surgical event ranged from 30-680 minutes. The incidence of nausea (26.34%) was twice that of vomiting (13.17%) and showed an association with the surgical procedure's size (p = 0.018). A statistically significant difference was observed only between pain intensity and preoperative fasting times for liquids (p = 0.007) and postoperative fasting time (p = 0.08). The occurrence of postoperative complications showed no association with preoperative fasting time (p = 0.850).

CONCLUSIONS

Although no association was observed between preoperative fasting time and surgical complications, it is noteworthy that both recommended and actual fasting time exceeded the proposed on clinical guidelines.

Perioperative urinary ketosis and metabolic acidosis in patients fasted for undergoing gynecologic surgery

BACKGROUND

Our bodies have adaptive mechanisms to fasting, in which glycogen stored in the liver and muscle protein are broken down, but also lipid mobilisation is triggered. As a result, glycerol and fatty acids are released into the bloodstream, increasing the production of ketone bodies in liver. However, there are limited studies on the incidence of perioperative urinary ketosis, the intraoperative blood glucose changes and metabolic acidosis after fasting for surgery in non-diabetic adult patients.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective cohort study involving 1831 patients undergoing gynecologic surgery under general anesthesia from January to December 2022. Ketosis was assessed using a postoperative urine test, while blood glucose levels and acid-base status were collected from intraoperative arterial blood gas analyses.

RESULTS

Of 1535 patients who underwent postoperative urinalysis, 912 (59.4%) patients had ketonuria. Patients with ketonuria were younger, had lower body mass index, and had fewer comorbidities than those without ketonuria. After adjustments, younger age, higher body mass index and surgery starting late afternoon were significant risk factors for postoperative ketonuria. Of the 929 patients assessed with intraoperative arterial blood gas analyses, 29.0% showed metabolic acidosis. Multivariable logistic regression revealed that perioperative ketonuria and prolonged surgery significantly increased the risk for moderate-to-severe metabolic acidosis.

CONCLUSION

Perioperative urinary ketosis and intraoperative metabolic acidosis are common in patients undergoing gynecologic surgery, even with short-term preoperative fasting. The risks are notably higher in younger patients with lower body mass index. Optimization of preoperative fasting strategies including implementation of oral carbohydrate loading should be considered for reducing perioperative metabolic derangement due to ketosis.

Factors influencing the fasting decisions of day-case surgery patients

BACKGROUND

Patients admitted on the day of surgery are asked to arrive fasted, and they often fast for longer than necessary. Although pre-assessment supports patients to prepare for surgery, little is known about how they make fasting decisions.

AIMS

To explore factors influencing the fasting decisions of day-case patients and how to provide information pre-operatively.

METHODS

A qualitative descriptive study design was used. Semi-structured telephone interviews were carried out with 10 patients recruited from a single day-case unit. Data were analysed using thematic analysis.

FINDINGS

Three themes provided context for fasting decisions: the operation as a serious event; the patient as an active partner; and the patient as a rule follower. Length of fast is determined by fasting decisions and practicalities.

CONCLUSION

Patients approach fasting decisions according to their knowledge and experience and their individual preferences for information. Pre-assessment nurses should tailor information to the patient and explain the rationale for fasting.

Impact of Preoperative Gum Chewing on Postoperative Anti-Emetic Use in Robot-Assisted Laparoscopic Surgery for Benign Ovarian Masses: A Prospective, Single-Blinded Randomized Controlled Trial

Background and Objectives: Postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) is a common issue for females undergoing gynecological surgeries, including those assisted by robotic systems. Despite available prophylactic measures, the incidence of PONV remains high, negatively impacting recovery and increasing healthcare costs. This study evaluates whether preoperative gum chewing reduces the need for anti-emetic drugs in females undergoing robot-assisted laparoscopic surgery for benign ovarian mass. Materials and Methods: This prospective, single-blinded, randomized controlled trial enrolled 92 adult females scheduled for robot-assisted laparoscopic surgery to treat benign ovarian mass. Following exclusions, the remaining participants were randomly assigned to either a gum-chewing group or a no-gum-chewing group. The gum-chewing group chewed sugar-free gum for 15 min in the holding area before surgery. The primary outcome measured was the need for anti-emetics to control PONV during the first hour in the post-anesthesia care unit (PACU). Secondary outcomes included the number of anti-emetic requests. No preemptive anti-emetics were administered during surgery. Results: Out of the initial 92 patients, 88 were included in the final analysis, with 44 in each group. The incidence of PONV requiring anti-emetics in the PACU was significantly lower in the gum-chewing group (79.5%) compared to the no-gum-chewing group (95.5%). Additionally, the number of anti-emetic requests was higher in the no-gum-chewing group. No postoperative complications such as tooth or jaw pain/injury or gastric content regurgitation were reported. Conclusions: Preoperative gum chewing for 15 min immediately before surgery significantly reduced the incidence of PONV in females undergoing robot-assisted laparoscopic surgery for benign ovarian mass. This simple, non-pharmacological intervention improved patient comfort and reduced the need for anti-emetic medications without any adverse effects. Further studies are needed to confirm these findings and to develop guidelines for incorporating preoperative gum chewing into clinical practice.

Safety of high-carbohydrate fluid diet 2 h versus overnight fasting before non-emergency endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography: A single-blind, multicenter, randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Although overnight fasting is recommended prior to endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), the benefits and safety of high-carbohydrate fluid diet (CFD) intake 2 h before ERCP remain unclear. This study aimed to analyze whether high-CFD intake 2 h before ERCP can be safe and accelerate patients' recovery.

METHODS

This prospective, multicenter, randomized controlled trial involved 15 tertiary ERCP centers. A total of 1330 patients were randomized into CFD group ( n = 665) and fasting group ( n = 665). The CFD group received 400 mL of maltodextrin orally 2 h before ERCP, while the control group abstained from food/water overnight (>6 h) before ERCP. All ERCP procedures were performed using deep sedation with intravenous propofol. The investigators were blinded but not the patients. The primary outcomes included postoperative fatigue and abdominal pain score, and the secondary outcomes included complications and changes in metabolic indicators. The outcomes were analyzed according to a modified intention-to-treat principle.

RESULTS

The post-ERCP fatigue scores were significantly lower at 4 h (4.1 ± 2.6 vs. 4.8 ± 2.8, t = 4.23, P <0.001) and 20 h (2.4 ± 2.1 vs. 3.4 ± 2.4, t = 7.94, P <0.001) in the CFD group, with least-squares mean differences of 0.48 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.26-0.71, P <0.001) and 0.76 (95% CI: 0.57-0.95, P <0.001), respectively. The 4-h pain scores (2.1 ± 1.7 vs. 2.2 ± 1.7, t = 2.60, P = 0.009, with a least-squares mean difference of 0.21 [95% CI: 0.05-0.37]) and positive urine ketone levels (7.7% [39/509] vs. 15.4% [82/533], χ2 = 15.13, P <0.001) were lower in the CFD group. The CFD group had significantly less cholangitis (2.1% [13/634] vs. 4.0% [26/658], χ2 = 3.99, P = 0.046) but not pancreatitis (5.5% [35/634] vs. 6.5% [43/658], χ2 = 0.59, P = 0.444). Subgroup analysis revealed that CFD reduced the incidence of complications in patients with native papilla (odds ratio [OR]: 0.61, 95% CI: 0.39-0.95, P = 0.028) in the multivariable models.

CONCLUSION

Ingesting 400 mL of CFD 2 h before ERCP is safe, with a reduction in post-ERCP fatigue, abdominal pain, and cholangitis during recovery.

TRAIL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov , No. NCT03075280.

Preoperative fasting and the risk of pulmonary aspiration-a narrative review of historical concepts, physiological effects, and new perspectives

In the early days of anaesthesia, the fasting period for liquids was kept short. By the mid-20th century 'nil by mouth after midnight' had become routine as the principles of the management of 'full stomach' emergencies were extended to include elective healthy patients. Back then, no distinction was made between the withholding of liquids and solids. Towards the end of the last century, recommendations of professional anaesthesiology bodies began to reduce the fasting time of clear liquids to 2 h. This reduction in fasting time was based on the understanding that gastric emptying of clear liquids is rapid, exponential, and proportional to the current filling state of the stomach. Furthermore, there was no evidence of a link between drinking clear liquids and the risk of aspiration. Indeed, most instances of aspiration are caused by failure to identify aspiration risk factors and adjust the anaesthetic technique accordingly. In contrast, long periods of liquid withdrawal cause discomfort and may also lead to serious postoperative complications. Despite this, more than two decades after the introduction of the 2 h limit, patients still fast for a median of up to 12 h before anaesthesia, mainly because of organisational issues. Therefore, some hospitals have decided to allow patients to drink clear liquids within 2 h of induction of anaesthesia. Well-designed clinical trials should investigate whether these concepts are safe in patients scheduled for anaesthesia or procedural sedation, focusing on both aspiration risk and complications of prolonged fasting.

Perioperative management of patients on glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To summarize the mechanism of action, clinical outcomes, and perioperative implications of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1-RAs). Specifically, this review focuses on the available literature surrounding complications (primarily, bronchoaspiration) and current recommendations, as well as knowledge gaps and future research directions on the perioperative management of GLP-1-RAs.

RECENT FINDINGS

GLP-1-RAs are known to delay gastric emptying. Accordingly, recent case reports and retrospective observational studies, while anecdotal, suggest that the perioperative use of GLP-1-RAs may increase the risk of bronchoaspiration despite fasting intervals that comply with (and often exceed) current guidelines. As a result, guidelines and safety bulletins have been published by several Anesthesiology Societies.

SUMMARY

While rapidly emerging evidence suggests that perioperative GLP-1-RAs use is associated with delayed gastric emptying and increased risk of bronchoaspiration (particularly in patients undergoing general anesthesia and/or deep sedation), high-quality studies are needed to provide definitive answers with respect to the safety and duration of preoperative drug cessation, and optimal fasting intervals according to the specific GLP-1-RA agent, the dose/duration of administration, and patient-specific factors. Meanwhile, clinicians must be aware of the potential risks associated with the perioperative use of GLP-1-RAs and follow the recommendations put forth by their respective Anesthesiology Societies.

Preoperative fasting in children. The evolution of recommendations and guidelines, and the underlying evidence

This review discusses the evolution of preoperative fasting guidelines and examines the incidence of pulmonary aspiration of gastric contents and suggested treatments. Nine guidelines developed by professional societies and published in peer-reviewed journals since 1994 were identified. The recommendations on preoperative fasting for various categories have undergone only small adaptations in the following three decades in pediatric anesthesia. We found twelve published studies of the incidence of pulmonary aspiration, which ranges from 0.6 to 12 in 10,000 anesthetics in children. However, this variation reflects differences in the definition of aspiration as well as differences in study design. The main risk factors identified are emergency surgery, ASA physical status, and patient age. Several additional risk factors have been suggested, including non-compliance to fasting guidelines. The duration of clear fluid fasting is not associated with an increased risk of pulmonary aspiration which may be reflected in future guideline updates in pediatric anesthesia.

Evidence-based guidelines for intrapartum maternal hydration assessment and management: A scoping review

PROBLEM

Inconsistent practice relating to intrapartum hydration assessment and management is reported, and potential harm exists for laboring women and birthing persons.

BACKGROUND

Labor and birth are physically demanding, and adequate nutrition and hydration are essential for labor progress. A lack of clear consensus on intrapartum hydration assessment and management during labor and birth currently exists. In addition, there is an inconsistent approach to managing hydration, often including a mixture of intravenous and oral fluids that are poorly monitored.

AIM

The aim of this scoping review was to identify and collate evidence-based guidelines for intrapartum hydration assessment and management of maternal hydration during labor and birth.

METHODS

PubMed, Embase, and CINAHL databases were searched, in addition to professional college association websites. Inclusion criteria were intrapartum clinical guidelines in English, published in the last 10 years.

FINDINGS

Despite searching all appropriate databases in maternity care, we were unable to identify evidence-based guidelines specific to hydration assessment and management, therefore resulting in an "empty review." A subsequent review of general intrapartum care guidelines was undertaken. Our adapted review identified 12 guidelines, seven of which referenced the assessment and management of maternal hydration during labor and birth. Three guidelines recommend that "low-risk" women in spontaneous labor at term should hold determination over what they ingest in labor. No recommendations with respect to assessment and management of hydration for women undergoing induction of labor were found.

DISCUSSION

Despite the increasing use of intravenous fluid as an adjunct to oral intake to maintain maternal intrapartum hydration, there is limited evidence and, subsequently, guidelines to determine best practice in this area. How hydration is assessed was also largely absent from general intrapartum care guidelines, further perpetuating potential clinical variation in this area.

CONCLUSION

There is an absence of guidelines specific to the assessment and management of maternal hydration during labor and birth, despite its importance in ensuring labor progress and safe care.

Impact of preoperative carbohydrate loading on postoperative course and morbidity in debulking surgery for epithelial ovarian cancer

Despite the theoretical benefits, the favorable effect of preoperative carbohydrate loading on postoperative morbidity remains controversial. Most of the outcomes reported in the literature are derived from non-gynecologic surgery data, with only one study involving a limited number of patients specifically in gynecological oncology. The present study aimed to investigate the impact of carbohydrate loading, as a single element of enhanced recovery after surgery protocols, on postoperative course and morbidity in patients undergoing debulking surgery for epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC). The present study was a non-randomized, prospective cohort trial enrolling patients with EOC who underwent surgery between June 2018 and December 2021. An oral carbohydrate supplement with a dose of 50 g was given to patients 2-3 h before anesthesia. Data on postoperative course and morbidity were collected and compared with data of a historical cohort including consecutive patients who underwent surgery without a carbohydrate loading between January 2015 and June 2018. Analyses were performed on a total of 162 patients, including 72 patients in the carbohydrate loading group and 90 patients in the control group. Median length of hospital stay (11 days vs. 11 days; P=0.555), postoperative days 1-7 serum c-reactive protein levels (P=0.213), 30-day readmission (11.6% vs. 11.5%, P=0.985), 30-day relaparotomy (2.8% vs. 3.4%, P=0.809) and 30-day morbidity (48.6% vs. 46.7%; P=0.805) were comparable between the cohorts. No significant differences in grades of morbidities were identified between the cohorts (P=0.511). Multivariate analysis revealed that the sole independent risk factor for any postoperative morbidity was operative time. In conclusion, based on the results of the present study, postoperative course and morbidity seemed to be unaffected by carbohydrate loading in patients undergoing debulking surgery for EOC.

Evidence-based cesarean delivery: preoperative management (part 7)

Preoperative preparation for cesarean delivery is a multistep approach for which protocols should exist at each hospital system. These protocols should be guided by the findings of this review. The interventions reviewed and recommendations made for this review have a common goal of decreasing maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality related to cesarean delivery. The preoperative period starts before the patient's arrival to the hospital and ends immediately before skin incision. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends showering with either soap or an antiseptic solution at least the night before a procedure. Skin cleansing in addition to this has not been shown to further decrease rates of infection. Hair removal at the cesarean skin incision site is not necessary, but if preferred by the surgical team then clipping or depilatory creams should be used rather than shaving. Preoperative enema is not recommended. A clear liquid diet may be ingested up to 2 hours before and a light meal up to 6 hours before cesarean delivery. Consider giving a preoperative carbohydrate drink to nondiabetic patients up to 2 hours before planned cesarean delivery. Weight-based intravenous cefazolin is recommended 60 minutes before skin incision: 1-2 g intravenous for patients without obesity and 2 g for patients with obesity or weight ≥80 kg. Adjunctive azithromycin 500 mg intravenous is recommended for patients with labor or rupture of membranes. Preoperative gabapentin can be considered as a way to decrease pain scores with movement in the postoperative period. Tranexamic acid (1 g in 10-20 mL of saline or 10 mg/kg intravenous) is recommended prophylactically for patients at high risk of postpartum hemorrhage and can be considered in all patients. Routine use of mechanical venous thromboembolism prophylaxis is recommended preoperatively and is to be continued until the patient is ambulatory. Music and active warming of the patient, and adequate operating room temperature improves outcomes for the patient and neonate, respectively. Noise levels should allow clear communication between teams; however, a specific decibel level has not been defined in the data. Patient positioning with left lateral tilt decreases hypotensive episodes compared with right lateral tilt, which is not recommended. Manual displacers result in fewer hypotensive episodes than left lateral tilt. Both vaginal and skin preparation should be performed with either chlorhexidine (preferred) or povidone iodine. Placement of an indwelling urinary catheter is not necessary. Nonadhesive drapes are recommended. Cell salvage, although effective for high-risk patients, is not recommended for routine use. Maternal supplemental oxygen does not improve outcomes. A surgical safety checklist (including a timeout) is recommended for all cesarean deliveries.

Timing of early water intake post-general anaesthesia: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Early water intake has gained widespread attention considering enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS). In the present systematic evaluation and meta-analysis, we assessed the effects of early water intake on the incidence of vomiting and aspiration in adult patients who received general anaesthesia on regaining consciousness during the resuscitation period.

OBJECTIVE

To systematically analyse the results of randomised controlled trials on early postoperative water intake in patients who underwent different types of surgery under general anaesthesia, both at home and abroad, to further explore the safety and application of early water intake and provide an evidence-based foundation for clinical application.

DESIGN

Systematic review and meta-analysis.

METHODS

To perform the systematic evaluation and meta-analysis, we searched the Web of Science, CINAHL, Embase, PubMed, Cochrane Library, Sinomed, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Wanfang, and Vipshop databases to identify randomised controlled trial studies on early water intake in adult patients who received general anaesthesia.

RESULTS

Herein, we included 10 publications with a total sample size of 5131 patients. Based on statistical analysis, there was no statistically significant difference in the incidence of vomiting (odds ratio [OR] = 0.81; 95% confidence interval [CI] [0.58-1.12]; p = 0.20; I-squared [I2] = 0%) and aspiration (OR = 0.78; 95%CI [0.45-1.37]; p = 0.40; I2 = 0%) between the two groups of patients on regaining consciousness post-general anaesthesia.

CONCLUSION

Based on the available evidence, early water intake after regaining consciousness post-anaesthesia did not increase the incidence of adverse complications when compared with traditional postoperative water abstinence. Early water intake could effectively improve patient thirst and facilitate the recovery of gastrointestinal function.

Determinants of gastric residual volume before elective surgery in diabetic patients: An observational study

Background

We investigated factors affecting the low- and high-risk groups for aspiration by measuring gastric volume with ultrasound in diabetic patients who fasted for elective surgery.

Methods

The study was conducted as an observational study. Sixty-five patients scheduled for elective surgery, aged 18-86 years, with American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) scores II-III, and who have diabetes were included after local ethics committee approval. Written informed consent was obtained from all participants. Demographic data of cases were recorded. Patients whose gastric residual volume (GRV) was calculated using the pupils equal, round, reactive to light, and accommodation (PERLA) formula following gastric antrum measurement in the right lateral decubitus and supine position by ultrasound were categorized as low or high risk for aspiration.

Results

Thirty-one patients were in the low-risk group, and 34 patients were in the high-risk group. Sex, weight, body mass index (BMI), hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) values, and duration of diabetes were not statistically significant (p > 0.5). Age (p = 0.006) and fasting blood glucose (FBG) (p = 0.005) were statistically significant. The risk of aspiration decreases with age. Hyperglycemia is related to delayed gastric emptying and a high risk for aspiration. The duration of fasting, GRV, and cross-sectional area (CSA) were statistically significant (p = 0.017, p = 0.000, and p = 0.000, respectively).

Conclusion

Gastric emptying might be delayed in diabetic patients resulting in a high risk for aspiration pneumonia. The risk of aspiration increases in young diabetic patients, and preoperative FBG measurements can provide an idea about gastric emptying in diabetic patients. Gastric ultrasound (USG) may contribute to guidelines for determining more appropriate fasting times for other patient populations, such as obese, pregnant, or child patients.

Perioperative Care in Cardiac Surgery: A Joint Consensus Statement by the Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) Cardiac Society, ERAS International Society, and The Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS)

Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) programs have been shown to lessen surgical insult, promote recovery, and improve postoperative clinical outcomes across a number of specialty operations. A core tenet of ERAS involves the provision of protocolized evidence-based perioperative interventions. Given both the growing enthusiasm for applying ERAS principles to cardiac surgery and the broad scope of relevant interventions, an international, multidisciplinary expert panel was assembled to derive a list of potential program elements, review the literature, and provide a statement regarding clinical practice for each topic area. This article summarizes those consensus statements and their accompanying evidence. These results provide the foundation for best practice for the management of the adult patient undergoing cardiac surgery.

Comparison of ultrasonographic measurement of gastric antral volume and pH with or without pharmacological acid aspiration prophylaxis in low-risk surgical patients - A randomized clinical trial

Background and Aims

The role of preoperative pharmacological prophylaxis in preventing aspiration pneumonitis under general anesthesia (GA) in patients at low risk of aspiration pneumonitis is still under debate. We addressed the need for routine pharmacological aspiration prophylaxis in at-risk population by assessing the change in gastric volume using ultrasound with and without pharmacological acid aspiration prophylaxis.

Material and Methods

A single-center, randomized double-blinded trial, with 200 adult patients scheduled for elective surgical procedures under GA, were randomized into a prophylaxis group, in which the patients received oral famotidine and metoclopramide, and a no prophylaxis group, in which the patients did not receive any prophylaxis. Gastric volume derived from preinduction measurement of gastric antral volume by ultrasound, postinduction gastric pH, and incidences of aspiration pneumonitis were compared. Bland-Altman plot was used to determine the level of agreement between measured gastric volume and ultrasonography based on calculated gastric volume.

Results

The gastric antral cross-sectional area (CSA) and volume in the no prophylaxis group (3.12 cm2 and 20.11 ml, respectively) were comparable to the prophylaxis group (2.56 cm2 and 19.67 ml, respectively) (P-values 0.97 and 0.63, respectively). Although there was a statistically significant decrease in gastric pH in the no prophylaxis group (P-value 0.01), it was not clinically significant to increase the risk of aspiration pneumonitis based on Roberts and Shirley criteria (P-value 0.39).

Conclusion

In an adequately fasted low-risk population, the amount of residual gastric volume was similar and below the aspiration threshold, regardless of the aspiration prophylaxis status.

Effects of Preoperative Oral Carbohydrate on Perioperative Maternal Outcomes Undergoing Cesarean Section: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Purpose

Preoperative oral carbohydrate (CHO) is a rapid postoperative rehabilitation protocol that improves perioperative outcomes and is widely used in adult surgical patients. However, pregnant women are excluded because of the possibility of aspiration due to delayed gastric emptying. This meta-analysis was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of preoperative oral CHO in elective cesarean section.

Methods

PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library were searched from inception to July 2023. Randomized controlled trials were included. The risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane tool. Risk ratios and 95% confidence intervals were calculated. Meta-analysis was performed using random-effects models to estimate risk ratios and mean differences (MDs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). The outcomes included thirst and hunger scores, incidence of vomiting and nausea, time to flatus, and homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR).

Results

A total of nine studies with 1211 patients were included in the analysis. The levels of thirst and hunger were evaluated using a 10-point visual analog scale, with 0 representing the best and 10 representing the worst. The severity of hunger (weighted mean difference (WMD: -2.34, 95% CI: -3.13 to -1.54), time to flatus (WMD: -3.51 hours, 95% CI: -6.85 to -0.17), and HOMA-IR (WMD: -1.04, 95% CI: -1.31 to -0.77) were significantly lower in the CHO group compared to the control group. However, there were no significant differences in the severity of thirst or the incidence of vomiting and nausea between the CHO and control groups.

Conclusion

Preoperative oral CHO during cesarean section alleviates thirst and hunger, shortens the time of postoperative flatus, and reduces HOMA-IR. However, the available evidence is insufficient to reach a clear consensus on the benefits or harms of preoperative oral CHO during cesarean section. Therefore, it is premature to make a definitive recommendation for or against its routine use.