Compliance with enhanced recovery after surgery criteria and preoperative and postoperative counselling reduces length of hospital stay in colorectal surgery: results of a randomized controlled trial

The enhanced recovery after surgery protocol in paediatric surgery: The analysis of the protocol principles based on a survey among Polish clinical centres

INTRODUCTION

The enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocol is a complex set of measures that improves patient outcomes in the adult population. The main goal of the protocol is to sustain homeostasis by mitigating the metabolic stress induced by surgical procedures. Hence, the search for similar solutions in paediatric patients since the benefits in the paediatric population are less well known.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The principles of the ERAS protocol were presented. A questionnaire survey was prepared to assess the preparation for the implementation of ERAS in paediatric surgery departments. Heads of all 19 clinical centres from Poland providing colorectal surgery in children were invited to participate. Seven centres responded to the survey. The questionnaire included four general questions related to the familiarity with ERAS and specific questions about the implementation of the 23-item protocol.

RESULTS

Five centres confirmed familiarity with the principles of the protocol and two of them confirmed the use of ERAS. The lowest number of implemented procedures was six, while the highest number was 18 out of 23. No centre implemented the zero fluid balance strategy. However, as many as five of the seven centres avoided preoperative fasting, three centres avoided mechanical bowel preparation, and three respondents used early oral nutrition in the postoperative period.

CONCLUSIONS

The ERAS protocol is commonly used and accepted worldwide. Other surgical teams may use the information contained in the manuscript to create or improve their ERAS protocol.

Impact of "Enhanced Recovery After Surgery" (ERAS) protocols vs. traditional perioperative care on patient outcomes after colorectal surgery: a systematic review

BACKGROUND

Colorectal surgery is associated with a high risk of postoperative complications, including technical complications, surgical site infections, and other adverse events affecting patient safety and overall patient experience. "Enhanced Recovery After Surgery" (ERAS) is considered a new standard of care for streamlining the perioperative care of surgical patients with the goal of minimizing complications and optimizing timely patient recovery after surgery. This systematic review was designed to investigate the evidence-based literature pertinent to comparing patient outcomes after ERAS versus conventional perioperative care.

METHODS

This systematic review evaluates the performance of ERAS protocols against conventional care in colorectal surgery, focusing on various postoperative outcome measures. An extensive search was conducted across multiple electronic databases and registers from July 2 to July 5, 2024, complemented by citation searching on November 30, 2024. This approach led to the identification of 11 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) from the past decade, involving 1,476 adult participants. To ensure methodological rigor and transparency, the review followed PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) 2020 guidelines and was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42024583074).

RESULTS

The implementation of ERAS protocols resulted in a notable decrease in hospital stay duration compared to conventional care, with reductions varying between 3 and 8 days across studies. ERAS patients also had faster gastrointestinal recovery, including quicker times to bowel movement, defecation, and resumption of normal diet. Furthermore, patients in ERAS groups showed notably reduced postoperative complications and opioid consumption, with patients experiencing lower pain scores on the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and reduced reliance on opioids. Additionally, nutritional recovery in ERAS patients was enhanced, with elevated albumin and total protein levels, alongside decreased inflammatory markers and improved immune function.

CONCLUSION

This systematic review provides compelling evidence supporting the integration of ERAS protocols into standard colorectal surgical practices. Future studies should aim to explore the variations in ERAS implementation, pinpoint the most impactful elements of ERAS, and work towards personalizing and standardizing these protocols across clinical settings. Additionally, evaluating long-term outcomes will help refine ERAS strategies, ensuring their enduring impact on patient recovery.

Beyond the Operating Room: A Narrative Review of Enhanced Recovery Strategies in Colorectal Surgery

Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocols have significantly transformed the management of patients undergoing colorectal surgery. This comprehensive review explores the key components and benefits of ERAS in colorectal procedures, focusing on preoperative, perioperative, and postoperative strategies aimed at improving patient outcomes. These strategies include preoperative patient education, multimodal analgesia, minimally invasive surgical techniques, and early mobilization. ERAS protocols reduce postoperative complications, shorten hospital stays, and enhance overall recovery, leading to better patient satisfaction and decreased healthcare costs. However, challenges such as patient adherence and managing high-risk patients remain critical areas for further research. Additionally, future research should focus on refining ERAS protocols, integrating novel technologies such as minimally invasive techniques, and evaluating long-term outcomes to further enhance the recovery process.

Enhanced recovery after fetal spina bifida surgery: global practice

OBJECTIVES

Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocols are multimodal evidence-based care plans that have been adopted for multiple surgical procedures to promote faster and better patient recovery and shorter hospitalization. This study aimed to explore whether worldwide fetal therapy centers offering prenatal myelomeningocele repair implement the ERAS principles and to provide recommendations for improved perioperative management of patients.

METHODS

In this survey study, a total of 53 fetal therapy centers offering prenatal surgery for open spina bifida were identified and invited to complete a digital questionnaire covering their pre-, intra- and postoperative management. An overall score was calculated per center based on compliance with 20 key ERAS principles, extrapolated from ERAS guidelines for Cesarean section, gynecological oncology and colorectal surgery. Each item was awarded a score of 1 or 0, depending, respectively, on whether the center did or did not comply with that principle, with a maximum score of 20.

RESULTS

The questionnaire was completed by 46 centers in 17 countries (response rate, 87%). In total, 22 (48%) centers performed exclusively open fetal surgery (laparotomy and hysterotomy), whereas 14 (30%) offered both open and fetoscopic procedures and 10 (22%) used only fetoscopy. The perioperative management of patients undergoing fetoscopic and open surgery was very similar. The median ERAS score was 12 (range, 8-17), with a mean ± SD of 12.5 ± 2.4. Center compliance was the highest for the use of regional anesthesia (98%), avoidance of bowel preparation (96%) and thromboprophylaxis (96%), while the lowest compliance was observed for preoperative carbohydrate loading (15%), a 2-h fasting period for clear fluids (20%), postoperative nausea and vomiting prevention (33%) and early feeding (35%). ERAS scores were similar in centers with a short (2-5 days), medium (6-10 days) and long (≥ 11 days) hospital stay (mean ± SD, 12.9 ± 2.4, 12.1 ± 2.0 and 10.3 ± 3.2, respectively, P = 0.15). Furthermore, there was no significant association between ERAS score and surgical technique or case volume.

CONCLUSIONS

The perioperative management of fetal spina bifida surgery is highly variable across fetal therapy centers worldwide. Standardized protocols integrating ERAS principles may improve patient recovery, reduce maternal morbidity and shorten the hospital stay after fetal spina bifida surgery. © 2024 The Author(s). Ultrasound in Obstetrics & Gynecology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Current perioperative care in patients undergoing a beyond total mesorectal excision procedure for rectal cancer: What are the differences with the colorectal enhanced recovery after surgery protocol?

AIM

Patients requiring a beyond total mesorectal excision (bTME) procedure for locally advanced rectal cancer (LARC) and locally recurrent rectal cancer (LRRC) will probably benefit from enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocols. However, implementation of ERAS protocols in such groups of patients is considered challenging. The aims of this study were to evaluate ERAS-related outcomes of patients with LARC or LRRC undergoing bTME and to investigate the possibility of designing a tailored ERAS protocol.

METHOD

This study was divided into four phases. Phase one consisted of a literature study to compare functional recovery and postoperative outcomes in patients undergoing bTME. In phase two, outcomes on ERAS care elements in bTME were retrospectively evaluated. In phase three, differences in ERAS-related outcomes and compliance of the colorectal ERAS protocol in patients who had undergone bTME were studied. In phase four, multidisciplinary team meetings were held to develop an ERAS protocol for bTME patients.

RESULTS

Seven studies reported on ERAS-related outcomes in patients undergoing bTME. Median length of hospital stay was 9-19 days, median stay in the intensive care unit was 2-4 days and 30-day postoperative major complication rates were 22.6%-61.3%. Seventy-five bTME patients were included for retrospective analysis. In these patients, length of stay was 9.0 days and major postoperative complications were observed in 40.0%. The overall ERAS compliance was 44.4%. Compared with the colorectal ERAS protocol, the largest differences in management were observed in the use of epidural anaesthesia, the postoperative use of urethral catheters, oral intake and mobilization.

CONCLUSION

Patients undergoing bTME for LARC or LRRC are substantially different from patients treated with the colorectal ERAS protocol, regarding ERAS-related outcomes. A tailored, multimodal ERAS protocol with specific modifications was developed by an expert multidisciplinary team for patients undergoing bTME for LARC or LRRC.

An investigation on the compliance of perioperative practices using ERAS protocols and barriers to the implementation of the ERAS protocols in colorectal surgery

BACKGROUND

Although ERAS protocols have many benefits, there are some deficiencies in their understanding and implementation by healthcare professionals. The present study was conducted to investigate the compliance of the current perioperative practices of healthcare professional with the ERAS protocols and to assess barriers to the implementation of ERAS protocols in colorectal surgery.

METHODS

This cross-sectional descriptive study conducted in the surgical clinics and operating rooms of a training and research hospital between January 2020 and September 2020 included 110 physician and nurse members of surgical teams. Data were collected using the Questionnaire for Evaluating the Use of the ERAS Protocol and Identifying Barriers to Implementation in Colorectal Surgery.

RESULTS

The compliance of the current perioperative practices by healthcare professionals with the ERAS protocols ranged between 15.5% (routinely leaving nasogastric tubes in situ following colorectal resection) and 61.8% (being aware of the concept of balanced analgesia). Variables such as the healthcare professional's profession, title, years in practice and colorectal surgery experience led to a difference between them in terms of their compliance of the practices with the ERAS protocols (p < 0.05). Based on the healthcare professionals' comments about barriers to the implementation of the ERAS protocol, themes such as education, teamwork, communication and lack of resources were created.

CONCLUSION

Healthcare professionals' compliance level of the current perioperative practices with the ERAS protocols was mostly low. Barriers to the implementation of the ERAS protocols had a multi-factor structure that concerns the multidisciplinary team.

Predictive factors for postoperative ileus after elective right hemicolectomy performed on over 80% Enhanced Recovery After Surgery-adherent patients: a retrospective cohort study

Purpose

Laparoscopic right hemicolectomy is the standard surgical approach for treatment of right-sided colonic neoplasms. Although performed within a strict Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) program, patients still develop postoperative ileus. The aim of this study was to describe the factors responsible for postoperative ileus after right hemicolectomy in a patient population with over 80% ERAS adherence.

Methods

In this retrospective study, we analyzed 499 consecutive patients undergoing elective right-sided colectomy for neoplastic disease in a single high-volume center. All patients followed an updated ERAS program.

Results

The overall median ERAS adherence was 80%. Patients with ≥ 80% adherence (n = 271) were included in further analysis. Their median ERAS adherence was 88.9% (interquartile range, 80-90; range, 80-100). Twenty-four of 271 patients (8.9%) developed postoperative ileus. A univariate regression analysis revealed carcinoma situated in the transverse colon, duration of operation over 200 minutes, and opiate consumption over 10 mg on the second postoperative day (POD) to be associated with a significantly higher risk of postoperative ileus. Multivariate regression analysis revealed that duration of surgery over 200 minutes (odds ratio [OR], 2.4; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.0-5.8; P = 0.045) and opiate consumption over 10 mg on POD 2 (OR, 4.8; 95% CI, 1.6-14.3; P = 0.005) independently predict a higher risk for postoperative ileus. The median length of hospital stay was significantly longer in patients with postoperative ileus (8 days vs. 3 days, P < 0.001). None of the 271 patients died during a 30-day follow-up.

Conclusion

Long duration of surgery, even minor postoperative opiate use, predict a higher risk for postoperative ileus in strictly ERAS-adherent patients undergoing laparoscopic right hemicolectomy.

Supportive Care Needs of Patients With Temporary Ostomy in Enhanced Recovery After Surgery: A Mixed-Methods Study

BACKGROUND

Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS), a global surgical quality improvement initiative, reduces the length of stay in the hospital. Temporary stoma care for rectal cancer is complex, and patients require prolonged care services to adjust to the stoma. The shorter stay durations in the new model challenge the conventional care pathways and create new patient needs.

PURPOSE

This study was designed to explore the supportive care needs of patients under the new surgical model to provide a reference for the design of ERAS nursing care plans.

METHODS

A convergent parallel mixed-methods design was used in this study. Patients with temporary stomas for rectal cancer were recruited using a convenience sampling method in gastrointestinal surgery wards and wound & stoma clinics in two public tertiary care hospitals in China. Standardized questionnaires were administered to 140 patients to collect quantitative data, and semistructured interviews were conducted individually with 13 patients to collect qualitative data. The questionnaire data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, and the interview data were analyzed using thematic analysis.

RESULTS

"Health system and information needs" and "care and support needs" were identified in both the qualitative and quantitative analyses as the most significant unmet needs of the participants. In addition, the qualitative analysis identified receiving focused stoma care instructions and easily understandable information as essential to fulfilling health system and information needs. Care and support needs included access to continued postdischarge services and attention from medical professionals.

CONCLUSION/IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE

The participants in this study experienced a variety of unmet supportive care needs under the ERAS protocol, with gaps particularly notable in two categories: "health system and information needs" and "care and support needs." Increased perioperative care and shorter hospital stays under the ERAS protocol reduce opportunities for patients to receive targeted instruction and shift much of the ostomy education and care workload out of the hospital, requiring greater attention from clinical nurses to ensure quality of care.

An Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) Protocol for Orthognathic Surgery Reduces Rates of Postoperative Nausea

For many surgical procedures, enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocols have improved patient outcomes, particularly postoperative nausea and vomiting. The purpose of this study was to evaluate postoperative nausea following orthognathic surgery after the implementation of an ERAS protocol. This retrospective cohort study included patients between 12 and 35 years old who underwent orthognathic surgery at Boston Children's Hospital from April 2018 to December 2022. Patients with syndromes or a hospital stay greater than 48 hours were excluded from the study. The primary predictor was enrollment in our institutional ERAS protocol. The main outcome variable was postoperative nausea. Intraoperative and postoperative covariates were compared between groups using unpaired t tests and chi squared analysis. Univariate and multivariate regression models with 95% confidence intervals were performed to identify predictors for nausea. A P value<0.05 was considered significant. There were 128 patients (68 non-ERAS, 60 ERAS) included in this study (51.6% female, mean age 19.02±3.25 years). The ERAS group received less intraoperative fluid (937.0±462.3 versus 1583.6±847.6 mL, P ≤0.001) and experienced less postoperative nausea (38.3% versus 63.2%, P =0.005). Enhanced recovery after surgery status ( P =0.005) was a predictor for less postoperative nausea, whereas bilateral sagittal split osteotomy ( P =0.045) and length of stay ( P =0.007) were positive predictors for postoperative nausea in multivariate logistic regression analysis. Implementing an ERAS protocol for orthognathic surgery reduces postoperative nausea. Level of Evidence: Level III-therapeutic.

Impact of hospital volume on failure to rescue for complications requiring reoperation after elective colorectal surgery: multicentre propensity score-matched cohort study

BACKGROUND

It has previously been reported that there are similar reoperation rates after elective colorectal surgery but higher failure-to-rescue (FTR) rates in low-volume hospitals (LVHs) versus high-volume hospitals (HVHs). This study assessed the effect of hospital volume on reoperation rate and FTR after reoperation following elective colorectal surgery in a matched cohort.

METHODS

Population-based retrospective multicentre cohort study of adult patients undergoing reoperation for a complication after an elective, non-centralized colorectal operation between 2006 and 2017 in 11 hospitals. Hospitals were divided into either HVHs (3 hospitals, median ≥126 resections per year) or LVHs (8 hospitals, <126 resections per year). Patients were propensity score-matched (PSM) for baseline characteristics as well as indication and type of elective surgery. Primary outcome was FTR.

RESULTS

A total of 6428 and 3020 elective colorectal resections were carried out in HVHs and LVHs, of which 217 (3.4%) and 165 (5.5%) underwent reoperation (P < 0.001), respectively. After PSM, 142 patients undergoing reoperation remained in both HVH and LVH groups for final analyses. FTR rate was 7.7% in HVHs and 10.6% in LVHs (P = 0.410). The median Comprehensive Complication Index was 21.8 in HVHs and 29.6 in LVHs (P = 0.045). There was no difference in median ICU-free days, length of stay, the risk for permanent ostomy or overall survival between the groups.

CONCLUSION

The reoperation rate and postoperative complication burden was higher in LVHs with no significant difference in FTR compared with HVHs.

Inflammatory stress response after transanal vs laparoscopic total mesorectal excision: a cohort study based on the TaLaR trial

BACKGROUND

Transanal total mesorectal excision (taTME) is a novel approach to radical surgery for low rectal cancer; however, it is not clear whether taTME causes a more severe inflammatory stress response than laparoscopic total mesorectal excision (laTME). Therefore, the authors conducted this study to address this question, with the secondary objective of analyzing the predictive effect of inflammatory indexes on postoperative infective complications between laTME and taTME.

METHODS

A total of 545 cases of laTME and 544 cases of taTME from the TaLaR randomized controlled trial were included. Inflammatory stress response was assessed via C-reactive protein (CRP), white blood cell count, neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio, platelet-lymphocyte ratio, lymphocyte-monocyte ratio, and prognostic nutritional index. Inflammatory indexes were measured and calculated preoperatively (t1) and on postoperative days one (t2) and seven (t3). The accuracy of inflammatory indexes as predictor of infective complications was evaluated by areas under the receiver operating characteristic curve.

RESULTS

Preoperative blood parameters were comparable between the two surgical methods. There were no significant differences in CRP, white blood cell count, neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio, platelet-lymphocyte ratio, lymphocyte-monocyte ratio, or prognostic nutritional index between the two surgical methods at any time point ( P >0.05). Among the inflammatory indexes at three time points, CRP on the first postoperative day was the most accurate predictor of infective complications, which is suitable for two surgical methods. The AUC was 0.7671 ( P <0.0001) with a cutoff of 39.84 mg/l, yielding 94% sensitivity and 47% specificity.

CONCLUSIONS

Compared with laTME, taTME surgery has no obvious disadvantage with respect to the postoperative inflammatory stress response. In addition, inflammatory indexes were favorable in predicting infective complications, with the best results for CRP on the first postoperative day. Defining the specific predictors for laTME and taTME is unnecessary.

Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) in colorectal surgery: implementation is still beneficial despite modern surgical and anesthetic care

PURPOSE

Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocols have shown beneficial outcomes in the last 20 years. Nevertheless, simultaneously implemented technical improvements such as minimally invasive access or modified anesthesia care may play a crucial role in optimizing patient outcome. The aim of the study was to investigate the effect of ERAS implementation in a highly specialized colorectal center.

METHODS

This is a propensity score matched single-center study comparing the short-term outcomes of patients undergoing elective colorectal surgery in a society-indepedent ERAS program from January 2021 to August 2022 to standard perioperative care from January 2019 to December 2020.

RESULTS

Four hundred fifty-six patients were included in the propensity score matched analysis with 228 patients per group (ERAS vs. standard care). Minimally invasive access was used in 80.2% vs. 77.6% (p = 0.88), and there were 16.6% vs. 18.8% (p = 0.92) rectal procedures in the ERAS and standard care group, respectively. Major complications occurred in 10.1% vs. 11.4% (p = 0.65) and anastomotic leakage demanding operative revision in 2.2% vs. 2.6% (p = 0.68) in the ERAS and standard care group, respectively. ERAS lead to a lower number of non-surgical complications compared to standard care (57 vs. 79; p = 0.02). Mean length of stay (LOS) and mean costs per case were lower in ERAS compared to standard care (9.2 ± 5.6 days vs. 12.7 ± 7.4 days, p < 0.01; costs 33,727 ± 15,883 USD vs. 40,309 ± 29,738 USD, p < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

The implementation of an ERAS protocol may lead to a reduction of LOS, costs, and a lower number of non-surgical complications even in a highly specialized colorectal unit using modern surgical and anesthetic care. ( ClinialTrials.gov number NCT05773248).

Impact of enhanced recovery pathways on patient-reported outcomes after abdominal surgery: a systematic review

INTRODUCTION

Evidence supports that enhanced recovery pathways (ERPs) reduce length of stay and complications; however, these measures may not reflect the perspective of patients who are the main stakeholders in the recovery process. This systematic review aimed to appraise the evidence regarding the impact of ERPs on patient-reported outcomes (PROs) after abdominal surgery.

METHODS

Five databases (Medline, Embase, Biosis, Cochrane, and Web of Science) were searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) addressing the impact of ERPs on PROs after abdominal surgery. We focused on distinct periods of recovery: early (within 7 days postoperatively) and late (beyond 7 days). Risk of bias was assessed using Cochrane's RoB 2.0. Results were appraised descriptively as heterogeneity hindered meta-analysis. Certainty of evidence was evaluated using GRADE.

RESULTS

Fifty-six RCTs were identified [colorectal (n = 18), hepatopancreaticobiliary (HPB) (n = 11), upper gastrointestinal (UGI) (n = 10), gynecological (n = 7), urological (n = 7), general surgery (n = 3)]. Most trials had 'some concerns' (n = 30) or 'high' (n = 25) risk of bias. In the early postoperative period, ERPs improved patient-reported general health (colorectal, HPB, UGI, urological; very low to low certainty), physical health (colorectal, gynecological; very low to low certainty), mental health (colorectal, gynecological; very low certainty), pain (all specialties; very low to moderate certainty), and fatigue (colorectal; low certainty). In the late postoperative period, ERPs improved general health (HPB, UGI, urological; very low certainty), physical health (UGI, gynecological, urological; very low to low certainty), mental health (UGI, gynecological, urological; very low certainty), social health (gynecological; very low certainty), pain (gynecological, urological; very low certainty), and fatigue (gynecological; very low certainty).

CONCLUSION

This review supports that ERPs may have a positive impact on patient-reported postoperative health status (i.e., general, physical, mental, and social health) and symptom experience (i.e., pain and fatigue) after abdominal surgery; however, data were largely derived from low-quality trials. Although these findings contribute important knowledge to inform evidence-based ERP implementation, there remains a great need to improve PRO assessment in studies focused on postoperative recovery.

Clinical practice guidelines for enhanced recovery after colon and rectal surgery from the American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons and the Society of American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgeons

The American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons (ASCRS) and the Society of American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgeons (SAGES) are dedicated to ensuring high-quality innovative patient care for surgical patients by advancing the science, prevention, and management of disorders and diseases of the colon, rectum, and anus as well as minimally invasive surgery. The ASCRS and SAGES society members involved in the creation of these guidelines were chosen because they have demonstrated expertise in the specialty of colon and rectal surgery and enhanced recovery. This consensus document was created to lead international efforts in defining quality care for conditions related to the colon, rectum, and anus and develop clinical practice guidelines based on the best available evidence. While not proscriptive, these guidelines provide information on which decisions can be made and do not dictate a specific form of treatment. These guidelines are intended for the use of all practitioners, healthcare workers, and patients who desire information about the management of the conditions addressed by the topics covered in these guidelines. These guidelines should not be deemed inclusive of all proper methods of care nor exclusive of methods of care reasonably directed toward obtaining the same results. The ultimate judgment regarding the propriety of any specific procedure must be made by the physician in light of all the circumstances presented by the individual patient. This clinical practice guideline represents a collaborative effort between the American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons (ASCRS) and the Society of American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgeons (SAGES) and was approved by both societies.

Impact of Preoperative Patient Education on Postoperative Recovery in Abdominal Surgery: A Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

Patient education is recommended as an essential component of Enhanced Recovery after Surgery (ERAS) protocols. However, there are many uncertainties regarding content and methodological criteria, which may have a significant impact on the effectiveness of the intervention. The aim of this review is to assess the effect of preoperative patient education on postoperative recovery in abdominal surgery and to examine different patient education strategies for their effectiveness.

METHODS

We performed a systematic review according to the PRISMA guidelines. PubMed, CINAHL, and Cochrane were searched from 2011 to 2022. All studies investigating the effect of preoperative patient education on postoperative recovery in abdominal surgery were included. A critical quality assessment of all included studies was performed.

RESULTS

We identified 826 potentially suitable articles via a database search and included 12 studies in this review. The majority of the included studies reported a reduction in the length of hospital stay (LOS) and even a reduction in postoperative complications and adverse events. Patients with preoperative education seemed to have lower psychological stress and experience less anxiety. However, the contents, delivery, and general conditions were implemented differently, making comparison difficult. Moreover, the majority of the included studies were weak in quality.

CONCLUSION

With this review, we report potential effects, current implementations, and frameworks of patient education. However, the results must be interpreted with caution and are not directly transferable to clinical practice. Further studies in this field are necessary to make concrete recommendations for clinical practice.

Perceived Provision of Perioperative Information and Care by Patients Who Have Undergone Surgery for Colorectal Cancer: A Cross-Sectional Study

BACKGROUND

Active patient participation in preparation and recovery from colorectal cancer surgery can be facilitated by timely information and care and may improve patient wellbeing and reduce hospitalizations; Methods: We aimed to identify gaps in perioperative information and care by asking colorectal cancer surgical patients to retrospectively report on their perceptions of care via a cross-sectional survey; Results: Overall, 179 (64% consent rate) patients completed one of two 64-item surveys exploring their views of 'optimal care' or their experiences of 'actual care'. In total, 41 (64%) aspects of care were endorsed as optimal. Of these, almost three-quarters (73%) were received by most patients (80% or more). Gaps in care were identified from discrepancies in the endorsement of optimal versus actual survey items. Of the 41 items identified as representing 'optimal care', 11 items were received by fewer than 80% of patients, including the provision of information about the impact of surgical wait-times on cancer cure (69%); pre-habilitation behaviors to improve health (75%); the type of questions to ask the health care team (74%); impact of pain medications on bowel movements (73%); how to obtain medical supplies for self-care at home (67%); dietary or exercise advice after discharge (25-31%); and emotional advice after discharge (44%).

CONCLUSIONS

These gaps represent patient-centered priorities and targets for supportive interventions.

Quality of counselling assessed by patients after total knee arthroplasty: A cross-sectional study

Patient counselling is a key function in nursing. High-quality counselling promotes adherence to treatment and reduces complications. The purpose of the study was to describe the quality of counselling experienced by total knee arthroplasty patients following surgery. The study was a descriptive cross-sectional study. The data were collected from patients following total knee arthroplasty (N = 60) in 2016 with a modified Quality of Counselling Instrument, and analysed using statistical methods. Over half of the patients (58%) were women and the mean age was 68 years (range 49-84). Over a quarter of patients (28.9%) lived alone, and about two-thirds were overweight (42.1%), or obese (31.6%). After surgery, many patients (88%) experienced moderate pain. Half of patients (52.6%) received a good quality of counselling for the disease and its treatment, and counselling for recovery from treatment (81.6%) was good. Most patients (92.1%) received satisfactory counselling about physical activity. There was a correlation between the disease and its treatment counselling and quality of life (r = -0.553, p = 0.003) and pain (r = -0657, p = 0.000). Interaction during counselling was good (97.4%) and it was implemented in a patient-centred way (89.5%). High-quality counselling implemented in a patient-centred manner can play a part in reducing pain and increasing patients' quality of life.

ERAS failure and major complications in elective colon surgery: Common risk factors

Background

Proper implementation and practice of an Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocol streamlines perioperative management to its optimum, resulting in fewer complications and lower costs. This study aims to identify potential risk factors for the failure of ERAS and for major postoperative complications in patients with elective colon resection.

Materials and methods

This was a single center retrospective analysis including all consecutive patients for elective colon resection during June 2017 - June 2019. All patients were treated within an upgraded ERAS program.

Results

908 patients were included. Median ERAS compliance was 67%. Over 70% compliance was associated with a significantly lower median complication index and a shorter median hospital stay and was set as threshold in further analyses. In a multivariate regression analysis, male gender, American Society of Anesthesiologists Physical Status (ASA PS) Classification IV, open surgery, and albumin level < 34 independently predicted increased risk for failure of ERAS. Furthermore, multivariate analyses revealed that male gender, cancer in the right hemicolon/transverse colon/splenic flexure, open surgery, failure to mobilize postoperatively, and administration of > 60 mg oxycodone postoperatively, independently predicted increased risk of postoperative ileus. Volvulus as primary diagnosis, conversion of laparoscopy to open surgery, failure to mobilize postoperatively, and preoperative hemoglobin < 100 g/l were found to independently predict increased risk of anastomotic dehiscence.

Conclusions

We suggest that patients of male gender, high ASA class, challenged mobility, and higher risk in open surgery, be managed with powered preoperative counseling, including rigorous physiotherapy, and operated on by two senior colorectal surgeons, in order to diminish the risk of conversion to open surgery and of postoperative complications.

Attitudes towards Enhanced Recovery after Surgery (ERAS) interventions in colorectal surgery: nationwide survey of Australia and New Zealand colorectal surgeons

BACKGROUND

Whilst Enhanced Recovery after Surgery (ERAS) has been widely accepted in the international colorectal surgery community, there remains significant variations in ERAS programme implementations, compliance rates and best practice recommendations in international guidelines.

METHODS

A questionnaire was distributed to colorectal surgeons from Australia and New Zealand after ethics approval. It evaluated specialist attitudes towards the effectiveness of specific ERAS interventions in improving short term outcomes after colorectal surgery. The data were analysed using a rating scale and graded response model in item response theory (IRT) on Stata MP, version 15 (StataCorp LP, College Station, TX).

RESULTS

Of 300 colorectal surgeons, 95 (31.7%) participated in the survey. Of eighteen ERAS interventions, this study identified eight strategies as most effective in improving ERAS programmes alongside early oral feeding and mobilisation. These included pre-operative iron infusion for anaemic patients (IRT score = 7.82 [95% CI: 6.01-9.16]), minimally invasive surgery (IRT score = 7.77 [95% CI: 5.96-9.07]), early in-dwelling catheter removal (IRT score = 7.69 [95% CI: 5.83-9.01]), pre-operative smoking cessation (IRT score = 7.68 [95% CI: 5.49-9.18]), pre-operative counselling (IRT score = 7.44 [95% CI: 5.58-8.88]), avoiding drains in colon surgery (IRT score = 7.37 [95% CI: 5.17-8.95]), avoiding nasogastric tubes (IRT score = 7.29 [95% CI: 5.32-8.8]) and early drain removal in rectal surgery (IRT score = 5.64 [95% CI: 3.49-7.66]).

CONCLUSIONS

This survey has demonstrated the current attitudes of colorectal surgeons from Australia and New Zealand regarding ERAS interventions. Eight of the interventions assessed in this study including pre-operative iron infusion for anaemic patients, minimally invasive surgery, early in-dwelling catheter removal, pre-operative smoking cessation, pre-operative counselling, avoidance of drains in colon surgery, avoiding nasogastric tubes and early drain removal in rectal surgery should be considered an important part of colorectal ERAS programmes.

Assessing Criteria for a Safe Early Discharge After Laparoscopic Colorectal Surgery

Importance

Early discharge after colorectal surgery has been advocated. However, there is little research evaluating clinical and/or laboratory criteria to determine who can be safely discharged early.

Objective

To evaluate the diagnostic performance of a C-reactive protein (CRP) level combined with 4 clinical criteria in ruling out an anastomotic leak and therefore allowing an early discharge on postoperative day 2 or 3.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This prospective, single-center cohort study was performed between February 2012 and July 2017. All consecutive adult patients undergoing laparoscopic colorectal surgery were included. All patients were followed up for 30 days postoperatively. Data analysis was performed in May 2021.

Exposures

Whether the 5 discharge criteria were fulfilled on postoperative day 3 (or day 2 for patients discharged on day 2). Fulfillment was defined as a CRP level less than 150 mg/dL on the day of discharge, a return of bowel function, tolerance of a diet, pain less than 5 of 10 on a visual analog scale, and being afebrile during the entire stay.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcome measurement was the diagnostic performance of the 5 discharge criteria in anticipating anastomotic leak development. The diagnostic performance of CRP level alone and 4 clinical criteria alone was also evaluated. Secondary measures were anastomotic leaks and mortality rates up to postoperative day 30. A discharge was successful if the patient left the hospital on postoperative day 2 or 3 without any complications or readmissions.

Results

A total of 287 patients were included (median [IQR] age, 58 [20] years; 141 men [49%] and 146 women [51%]). Mortality was 0%. There were 17 anastomotic leaks, of which 2 were on day 1 and were excluded. A total of 128 patients fulfilled all criteria, and 125 did not, including 34 for whom data were missing. Two leaks occurred in patients who had fulfilled all criteria vs 13 leaks in patients who did not (hazard ratio, 0.15 [95% CI, 0.03-0.69]; P = .01). Seventy-six of 128 patients (59.4%) were discharged successfully by postoperative day 3. The negative predictive value in ruling out an anastomotic leak was at least 96.9% for CRP alone (96.9% [95% CI, 93.3%-98.8%]), the 4 clinical criteria (98.4% [95% CI, 95.3%-99.7%]), and all 5 criteria combined (98.4% [95% CI, 94.5%-99.8%]). False-negative rates were 40% (95% CI, 16.3%-67.7%) for CRP level alone, 20% (95% CI, 4.3%-48.1%) for the other 4 criteria, and 13.3% (95% CI, 0%-40.5%) for all 5 criteria.

Conclusions and Relevance

These 5 criteria have a high negative predictive value and the lowest false-negative rate, indicating they have the potential to allow for safe early discharge after laparoscopic colorectal surgery.

Visceral obesity enhances inflammatory response after laparoscopic colorectal resection

AIMS

C-reactive protein (CRP) is used for monitoring postoperative inflammation (POI) and detecting infectious complications. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of visceral obesity (VO) on acute POI measured through CRP after elective laparoscopic colorectal resection.

METHODS

Pre-operative Computed tomography images of 357 patients who underwent laparoscopic colorectal resection were analyzed. Visceral adipose tissue (VAT) area was measured for each patient. VO was defined as VAT area >163.8 cm² in men and >80.1 cm² in women according to accepted sex-specific cut-offs. Postoperative outcomes and CRP values were compared between VO and non-VO groups. The most appropriate CRP value for identifying infectious complications in the two groups was assessed with receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves. Univariate and multivariate analyses were conducted for factors affecting POI including VO.

RESULTS

No differences in postoperative outcomes and infectious complications were found in VO patients (62.2% of the overall population). Both in the overall cohort and in patients without infectious complications, VO was associated with higher CRP values on postoperative day (POD) 1, POD2, POD3, and POD5. A positive correlation was found between VAT and CRP on all PODs. VO independently predicted higher CRP on POD1-3 in patients without infectious complications but not in those who developed complications. ROC curves analysis showed optimal accuracy for detection of infectious complications for CRP on POD3 in both groups, though the optimal cut-off value was higher in VO group (154 vs 136 mg/L).

CONCLUSIONS

VO is not associated to increased complications after laparoscopic colorectal resection. Nevertheless, it is independently associated to higher CRP in the overall population and in patients without infectious complications. Consequently, CRP values on POD3 higher than cut-offs commonly adopted in the clinical practice should be carefully evaluated in VO patients to assess the occurrence of infectious complications.

Enhanced Recovery Pathways for Flap-Based Reconstruction: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) pathways are known to improve patient outcomes after surgery. In recent years, there have been growing interest in ERAS for reconstructive surgery.

OBJECTIVES

To systematically review and summarise literature on the key components and outcomes of ERAS pathways for autologous flap-based reconstruction.

DATA SOURCES

Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, MEDLINE, EMBASE, Current Controlled Trials, World Health Organization International Clinical Trials Registry Platform and reference lists of relevant studies.

INCLUSION CRITERIA

All primary studies of ERAS pathways for free and pedicled flap-based reconstructions reported in the English language.

OUTCOME MEASURES

The primary outcome measure was length of stay. Secondary outcomes were complication rates including total flap loss, partial flap loss, unplanned reoperation within 30 days, readmission to hospital within 30 days, surgical site infections and medical complications.

RESULTS

Sixteen studies were included. Eleven studies describe ERAS pathways for autologous breast reconstructions and five for autologous head and neck reconstructions. Length of stay was lower in ERAS groups compared to control groups (mean reduction, 1.57 days; 95% CI, - 2.15 to - 0.99). Total flap loss, partial flap loss, unplanned reoperations, readmissions, surgical site infections and medical complication rates were similar between both groups. Compliance rates were poorly reported.

CONCLUSION

ERAS pathways for flap-based reconstruction reduce length of stay without increasing complication rates. ERAS pathways should be adapted to each institution according to their needs, resources and caseload. There is potential for the development of ERAS pathways for chest wall, perineum and lower limb reconstruction.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE III

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

Enhanced Recovery After Surgery in Older Adults Undergoing Colorectal Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

BACKGROUND

Enhanced recovery after surgery is increasingly applied in older adults undergoing colorectal surgery.

OBJECTIVE

This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the impact of enhanced recovery protocols on clinical outcomes including hospital-acquired geriatric syndromes in older adults undergoing colorectal surgery.

DATA SOURCES

This review was conducted according to PRISMA guidelines. Ovid MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, Scopus, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, CINAHL, and trial registry databases were searched (January 1980 to April 2020).

STUDY SELECTION

Two researchers independently screened all articles for eligibility. Randomized controlled trials evaluating enhanced recovery protocols in older adults undergoing colorectal surgery were included.

INTERVENTION

The enhanced recovery protocol was utilized.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Primary outcomes of interest were functional decline and delirium. Other outcomes studied were length of stay, complications, readmission, mortality, gut function, mobilization, pain, reoperation, quality of life, and psychological status.

RESULTS

Seven randomized trials (n = 1277 participants) were included. In terms of hospital-acquired geriatric syndromes, functional decline was reported in 1 study with benefits reported in enhanced recovery after surgery participants, and meta-analyses showed reduced incidence of delirium (risk ratio, 0.45; 95% CI, 0.21-0.98). Meta-analyses also showed reduction in urinary tract infections (risk ratio, 0.53; 95% CI, 0.31-0.90), time to first flatus (standardized mean differences, -1.00; 95% CI, -1.98 to -0.02), time to first stool (standardized mean differences, -0.59; 95% CI, -0.76 to -0.42), time to mobilize postoperatively (standardized mean differences, -0.92; 95% CI, -1.27 to -0.58), time to achieve pain control (standardized mean differences, -0.59; 95% CI, -0.90 to -0.28), and hospital stay (mean differences, -2.20; 95% CI, -3.46 to -0.94).

LIMITATIONS

The small number of randomized trials in older adults is a limitation of this study.

CONCLUSIONS

Enhanced recovery protocols in older adults undergoing colorectal surgery appear to reduce the incidence of delirium and functional decline, 2 important hospital-acquired geriatric syndromes, as well as to improve other clinical outcomes. Future research should measure these geriatric syndromes and focus on high-risk older adults including those with frailty.

Feasibility and outcomes of ERAS protocol in elective cT4 colorectal cancer patients: results from a single-center retrospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

Programs of Enhanced Recovery After Surgery reduces morbidity and shorten recovery in patients undergoing colorectal resections for cancer. Patients presenting with more advanced disease such as T4 cancers are frequently excluded from undergoing ERAS programs due to the difficulty in applying established protocols. The primary aim of this investigation was to evaluate the possibility of applying a validated ERAS protocol in patients undergoing colorectal resection for T4 colon and rectal cancer and to evaluate the short-term outcome.

METHODS

Single-center, retrospective cohort study. All patients with a clinical diagnosis of stage T4 colorectal cancer undergoing surgery between November 2016 and January 2020 were treated following the institutional fast track protocol without exclusion. Short-term postoperative outcomes were compared to those of a control group treated with conventional care and that underwent surgical resection for T4 colorectal cancer at the same institution from January 2010 to October 2016. Data from both groups were collected retrospectively from a prospectively maintained database.

RESULTS

Eighty-two patients were diagnosed with T4 cancer, 49 patients were included in the ERAS cohort and 33 in the historical conventional care cohort. Both, the mean time of tolerance to solid food diet and postoperative length of stay were significantly shorter in the ERAS group than in the control group (3.14 ± 1.76 vs 4.8 ± 1.52; p < 0.0001 and 6.93 ± 3.76 vs 9.50 ± 4.83; p = 0.0084 respectively). No differences in perioperative complications were observed.

CONCLUSIONS

Results from this cohort study from a single-center registry support the thesis that the adoption of the ERAS protocol is effective and applicable in patients with colorectal cancer clinically staged T4, reducing significantly their length of stay and time of tolerance to solid food diet, without affecting surgical postoperative outcomes.

The Utility of Preoperative Phone Calls for Endoscopic Sinus Surgery Procedures

OBJECTIVE

Perioperative patient education improves patient satisfaction, surgical outcomes, and can reduce postoperative call volume. Here, we investigate whether the use of standardized preoperative phone calls elicits similar results in patients undergoing endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS).

METHODS

Patients undergoing ESS at a tertiary rhinology center were identified prospectively through the electronic medical record (EMR). In the intervention cohort, a standardized preoperative educational phone call was performed. A postoperative survey was utilized to collect self-assessment of satisfaction and understanding in all patients. Postoperative call rates were obtained from the EMR. Wilcoxon rank sum and chi-squared analyses were conducted to compare results. Demographics of the otology and rhinology cohorts were compared with a Mann Whitney U-test.

RESULTS

Data from 43 cases and 58 controls were collected. Patients receiving the intervention were similar to controls with regard to patient-reported understanding (case:9.1 ± 1.1 vs control:9.0 ± 1.4, p = 0.801) and satisfaction (case:9.4 ± 1.1 vs 8.9 ± 1.4, p = 0.155). Both cases and controls called the clinic regarding surgical outcomes more often than for postoperative medications or administrative concerns. Independent of receiving the intervention, patients that did not call clinic postoperatively had significantly better understanding of their procedures (call:8.6 ± 1.6 vs no-call:9.5 ± 1.0, p < 0.015) and satisfaction with their experience (call:8.8 ± 1.4 vs no-call:9.5 ± 1.1, p < 0.028). Patient age may contribute to lack of impact in the rhinology cohort, as compared to the otology group, but socioeconomic status does not seem to differentiate the two samples.

CONCLUSION

Though shown in other settings, a significant impact of educational phone calls prior to surgery was not observed in this sample. Patient education calls prior to endoscopic sinus surgery were not associated with changes in postoperative call volume to the clinic. Patient understanding and satisfaction may be related to other factors, such as patient selection or demographics. Future studies may target such patients prior to ESS.

The Effect of Photographic Visual Aids in Preoperative Patient Counseling in Oculoplastic Surgery

PURPOSE

To investigate the effect of visual supplementation and its mode of delivery in preoperative counseling of patients undergoing oculoplastic surgery.

METHODS

A prospective randomized controlled trial of consecutive patients undergoing oculoplastic eyebrow and eyelid surgery was conducted. Patients were randomized to an "oral only" group receiving routine preoperative oral counseling or an "oral and visual" group receiving identical counseling visually supplemented with photographs demonstrating common postoperative physical findings. Patients in the "oral and visual" group were further randomized to receive education from the medical team in person versus prerecorded video. Patient emotions and expectations regarding postoperative healing were assessed preoperatively and at 1 week and 2 months postoperatively.

RESULTS

103 patients were included: 32 received in-person oral education, 33 received in-person oral education with photographs, and 38 received education with photographs via video. There were no significant differences in demographics or preoperative patient fear, anxiety, or preparedness. The "oral and visual" group expected more severe postsurgical discomfort and physical findings at postoperative day 1 and week 1. There were no significant differences between groups in surgery signup, cancellation, or triage call rates; patient expectations of postoperative months 2 and 4; or in anxiety, preparedness, or satisfaction.

CONCLUSIONS

Visual supplementation in preoperative counseling increases patient expectations of postoperative physical findings without escalating fear or anxiety, and has no significant impact on patient emotions, triage call rates, and satisfaction throughout their surgical experience. Preoperative education via video is perceived by patients to be equivalent to counseling in person by the surgeon.

Enhanced Recovery after Surgery: History, Key Advancements and Developments in Transplant Surgery

Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) aims to improve patient outcomes by controlling specific aspects of perioperative care. The concept was introduced in 1997 by Henrik Kehlet, who suggested that while minor changes in perioperative practise have no significant impact alone, incorporating multiple changes could drastically improve outcomes. Since 1997, significant advancements have been made through the foundation of the ERAS Society, responsible for creating consensus guidelines on the implementation of enhanced recovery pathways. ERAS reduces length of stay by an average of 2.35 days and healthcare costs by $639.06 per patient, as identified in a 2020 meta-analysis of ERAS across multiple surgical subspecialties. Carbohydrate loading, bowel preparation and patient education in the pre-operative phase, goal-directed fluid therapy in the intra-operative phase, and early mobilisation and enteral nutrition in the post-operative phase are some of the interventions that are commonly implemented in ERAS protocols. While many specialties have been quick to incorporate ERAS, uptake has been slow in the transplantation field, leading to a scarcity of literature. Recent studies reported a 47% reduction in length of hospital stay (LOS) in liver transplantation patients treated with ERAS, while progress in kidney transplantation focuses on pain management and its incorporation into enhanced recovery protocols.

[Structured Implementation of a Fast-Track Program - How Does it Work?]

Fast-track or ERAS programs can give clinically relevant benefits for patients undergoing surgery. They also have financial advantages for the hospital. Despite these facts, fast-track has been implemented in only very few hospitals in Germany. Neither scientific evidence nor reimbursement regulations explain this lack of fast-track acceptance. It seems however that a structured process of change from traditional perioperative medicine to evidence based fast-track therapy is missing in Germany. In other countries, structured programs for fast-track or ERAS implementation have been successful in many hospitals. This article describes structured fast-track implementation divided into three consecutive steps: organisational preparation, clinical implementation and continuous examination of fast-track adherence, functional recovery, morbidity and postoperative length of hospital stay. Due to its complex nature, fast-track implementation should be guided by external fast-track experts.

Role for colorectal teams to support non-colorectal teams to improve clinical outcomes and adherence to ERAS guidelines for segmental colectomy: a cohort study

BACKGROUND

To identify whether compliance with Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) Society recommendations is associated with length of stay (LOS) in a New Zealand hospital for patients undergoing segmental colectomy in mixed acute and elective general surgery wards.

METHODS

Consecutive elective colorectal surgeries (n = 770) between October 2012 and February 2019 were audited. Patients with non-segmental colectomies, multi-organ surgeries, LOS > 14 days, and those who died were excluded. Logistic regression was used to determine the relationship between patient demographics, compliance with ERAS guidelines, and suboptimal LOS (> 4 days).

RESULTS

Analysis included 376 patients. Age, surgery prior to 2014, surgical approach, non-colorectal surgical team, operation type, and complications were significantly associated with suboptimal LOS. Non-compliance with ERAS recommendations for laparoscopy [OR 8.9, 95% CI (4.52, 19.67)], removal of indwelling catheters (IDC) [OR 3.14, 95% CI (1.85, 5.51)], use of abdominal drains [OR 4.27, 95% CI (0.99, 18.35)], and removal of PCA [OR 8.71, 95% CI (1.78, 157.27)], were associated with suboptimal LOS (univariable analysis). Multivariable analysis showed that age, surgical team, late removal of IDC, and open approach were independent predictors of suboptimal LOS.

CONCLUSIONS

Non-compliance with ERAS guidelines for laparoscopic approach and early removal of IDC was higher among procedures performed by non-colorectal surgery teams, and was also associated with adverse postoperative events and suboptimal LOS. This study demonstrates the importance of the surgical team's expertise in affecting surgical outcomes, and did not find significant independent associations between most individual ERAS guidelines and suboptimal LOS once adjusting for other factors.

The implementation of enhanced recovery after surgery protocols in ovarian malignancy surgery

The enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) refers to multimodal interventions to reduce the length of hospital stay and complications at various steps of perioperative care. It was first developed in colorectal surgery and later embraced by other surgical disciplines including gynecologic oncology. The ERAS Society recently published guidelines for gynecologic cancer surgeries to enhance patient recovery. However, limitations exist in the implementation of the guidelines in ovarian cancer patients due to the distinct characteristics of the disease. In the present review, we discuss the results that have been published in the literature to date regarding the ERAS protocols in ovarian cancer patients, and explain why more evidence needs to be specifically assessed in this type of malignancy among other gynecologic cancers.

Enhanced Recovery Programs for Colorectal Surgery and Postoperative Acute Kidney Injury: Results From a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Observational Studies

BACKGROUND

Enhanced recovery programs (ERPs) for colorectal surgery bundle evidence-based measures to reduce complications, accelerate postoperative recovery, and improve the value of perioperative health care. Despite these successes, several recent studies have identified an association between ERPs and postoperative acute kidney injury (AKI). We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to determine the association between ERPs for colorectal surgery and postoperative AKI.

METHODOLOGY

After conducting a search of major databases (PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Google Scholar, and ScienceDirect), we conducted a meta-analysis of observational studies that reported on the association between ERPs and postoperative AKI.

RESULTS

Six observational studies (n = 4765 patients) comparing ERP (n = 2140) to conventional care (n = 2625) were included. Overall, ERP patients had a significantly greater odds of developing postoperative AKI (odds ratio [OR] = 1.98, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.31-3.00, P = .001) than those who received conventional care. There was no evidence of publication bias (Begg's test P = 1.0, Egger's P value = .95).

CONCLUSIONS

Based upon pooled results from observational studies, ERPs are associated with increased odds of developing postoperative AKI compared to conventional perioperative care. The mechanism for this effect is likely multifactorial. Additional research targeting high risk patient populations should evaluate the role of restrictive fluid administration, hemodynamic goals, and scheduled nephrotoxic agents in ERP protocols.

IMPROVED OUTCOMES WITH IMPLEMENTATION OF AN ENHANCED RECOVERY AFTER SURGERY (ERAS) PATHWAY FOR PATIENTS UNDERGOING ELECTIVE COLORECTAL SURGERY IN THE PHILIPPINES

Objective

This study aims to evaluate surgical outcomes (i.e. length of stay, 30-day morbidity, mortality, reoperation, and readmission rates) with the use of the ERAS pathway, and determine its association with the rate of compliance to the different ERAS components.

Methodology

This was a prospective cohort of patients, who underwent the following elective procedures: stoma reversal (SR), colon resection (CR), and rectal resection (RR). The primary endpoint was to determine the association of compliance to an ERAS pathway and surgical outcomes. These were then compared to outcomes prior to the implementation of ERAS.

Results

A total of 267 patients were included in the study. The overall compliance to the ERAS component was 92% (SR:91.75%, CR:93.06%, RR:90.65%). There was an associated decrease in morbidity rates across all types of surgery, as compliance to ERAS increased. The average total LOS decreased in all groups but was only found to have statistical significance in SR (12.06 ± 6.67 vs 10.02 ± 5.43 days; p=0.002) and RR (19.85 ± 11.38 vs 16.85 ± 10.45 days; p=0.04) groups. Decreased postoperative LOS was noted in all groups. Morbidity rates were significantly higher after ERAS implementation, but reoperation and mortality rates were found to be similar.

Conclusion

Implementation of ERAS improved outcomes, particularly length of stay. Although an actual increase in morbidity was noted, that may be explained by the improved reporting and documentation that accompanied the implementation of the protocol, a decreased likelihood of developing complications is foreseen with increased compliance to ERAS.

Enhanced recovery after bariatric surgery (ERABS) protocol implementation in a laparoscopic center

INTRODUCTION

Enhanced recovery after bariatric surgery (ERABS) protocols consist of a combination of several preoperative, intraoperative and postoperative methods for the management of the surgical patient. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of the ERABS protocol on length of hospital stay (LOS) and postoperative complications.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Retrospective study of patients who underwent elective Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) and sleeve gastrectomy (SG) between 2015 and 2018. From 2015 to 2017, patients received traditional management (pre-ERABS group). Those who underwent surgery during 2018 were managed with our ERABS protocol (ERABS group). The primary outcome was LOS. Secondary outcomes were readmission rate and 30-day postoperative complications.

RESULTS

A total of 200 patients who received RYGB and SG between 2015 and 2018 were retrospectively analyzed; we included 120 patients in the pre-ERABS group and 80 in the ERABS group. The median LOS was four days [2-49] in the pre-ERABS group, as compared with two days [1-26] in the ERABS group (p < .0001). No significant differences were found in postoperative complication rates, readmissions, and mortality.

CONCLUSION

Implementation of the ERABS protocol is related to a better postoperative recovery and allows an early discharge without increasing postoperative complications, readmissions or mortality.

Influence of the Enhanced Recovery After Surgery Protocol on Postoperative Inflammation and Short-term Postoperative Surgical Outcomes After Colorectal Cancer Surgery

Purpose

Many studies have shown that the enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocols improve postoperative surgical outcomes. The purpose of this study was to observe the effects on postoperative inflammatory markers and to explore the effects of a high degree of compliance and the use of epidural anesthesia on inflammation and surgical outcomes.

Methods

Four hundred patients underwent colorectal cancer surgery at 2 hospitals during 2 different periods, namely, from January 2006 to December 2009 and from January 2017 to July 2017. Data related to the patient’s clinicopathological features, inflammatory markers, percentage of compliance with elements of the ERAS protocol, and use of epidural anesthesia were collected from a prospectively maintained database.

Results

The complication rate and the length of hospital stay (LOS) were less in the ERAS group than in the conventional group (P = 0.005 and P ≤ 0.001, respectively). The postoperative white blood cell count and the duration required for leukocytes to normalize were reduced in patients following the ERAS protocol (P ≤ 0.001). Other inflammatory markers, such as lymphocyte count (P = 0.008), neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (P = 0.032), and C-reactive protein level (P ≤ 0.001), were lower in the ERAS protocol group. High compliance ( ≥ 70%) was strongly associated with the complication rate and the LOS (P = 0.008 and P ≤ 0.001, respectively).

Conclusion

ERAS protocols decrease early postoperative inflammation and improves short-term postoperative recovery outcomes such as complication rate and the LOS. High compliance ( ≥ 70%) with the ERAS protocol elements accelerates the positive effects of ERAS on surgical outcomes; however, the effect on inflammation was very small.

Systematic scoping review of enhanced recovery protocol recommendations targeting return of gastrointestinal function after colorectal surgery

BACKGROUND

Post-operative ileus (POI) and delayed return of gastrointestinal (GI) function are common complications after colorectal surgery. There is a lack of uniformity in enhanced recovery protocols (ERPs) with regards to interventions used to target these complications. This systematic review aims to categorize and summarize management recommendations available from published ERPs.

METHODS

A systematic search of Ovid MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Library and PubMed databases was performed from January 1990 to May 2018. All studies publishing enhanced recovery or fast-track or multimodal pathway protocols for colorectal surgery in their full-text were included. Data on interventions aimed at reducing the duration of POI were extracted, as well as references quoted to support specific interventions.

RESULTS

Of 481 manuscripts screened, 37 published ERPs were identified from 37 studies (18 cohort, seven historical-control, five guidelines, four randomized controlled trials, one randomized controlled trial protocol, one case series and one narrative review). The most commonly recommended interventions were magnesium-based laxatives (18 of 37, 48.6%), chewing gum (13 of 37, 35.1%), Alvimopan (6 of 37, 16.2%), lactulose (4 of 37, 10.8%), neostigmine (2 of 37, 5.4%) and bisacodyl (2 of 37, 5.4%). Geographical trends were noted for the various interventions, but high-quality evidence was only referenced to support the use of Alvimopan.

CONCLUSION

ERP recommendations specific to interventions targeting POI and return of GI function are varied. While laxatives are the most commonly recommended intervention, there is only weak evidence reported to support this practice.

Multicomponent hospital-led interventions to reduce hospital stay for older adults following elective surgery: a systematic review

Background

Elective older adult inpatient admissions are increasingly common. Older adults are at an elevated risk of adverse events in hospital, potentially increasing with lengthier hospital stay. Hospital-led organisational strategies may optimise hospital stay for elective older adult inpatients.

Objectives

To evaluate the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of hospital-led multicomponent interventions to reduce hospital stay for older adults undergoing elective hospital admissions.

Data sources

Seven bibliographic databases (MEDLINE, MEDLINE In-Process & Other Non-Indexed Citations, EMBASE, Health Management Information Consortium, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature and Allied and Complementary Medicine Database) were searched from inception to date of search (August 2017), alongside carrying out of web searches, citation searching, inspecting relevant reviews, consulting stakeholders and contacting authors. This search was duplicated, with an additional cost-filter, to identify cost-effectiveness evidence.

Review methods

Comparative studies were sought that evaluated the effectiveness or cost-effectiveness of relevant interventions in elective inpatients with a mean or median age of ≥ 60 years. Study selection, data extraction and quality assessment were completed independently by two reviewers. The main outcome was length of stay, but all outcomes were considered. Studies were sorted by procedure, intervention and outcome categories. Where possible, standardised mean differences or odds ratios were calculated. Meta-analysis was performed when multiple randomised controlled trials had the same intervention, treatment procedure, comparator and outcome. Findings were explored using narrative synthesis.

Findings

A total of 218 articles were included, with 80 articles from 73 effectiveness studies (n = 26,365 patients) prioritised for synthesis, including 34 randomised controlled trials conducted outside the UK and 39 studies from the UK, of which 12 were randomised controlled trials. Fifteen studies included cost-effectiveness data. The evidence was dominated by enhanced recovery protocols and prehabilitation, implemented to improve recovery from either colorectal surgery or lower limb arthroplasty. Six other surgical categories and four other intervention types were identified. Meta-analysis found that enhanced recovery protocols were associated with 1.5 days’ reduction in hospital stay among patients undergoing colorectal surgery (Cohen’sd = –0.51, 95% confidence interval –0.78 to –0.24;p < 0.001) and with 5 days’ reduction among those undergoing upper abdominal surgery (Cohen’sd = –1.04, 95% confidence interval –1.55 to –0.53;p < 0.001). Evidence from the UK was not pooled (owing to mixed study designs), but it echoed findings from the international literature. Length of stay usually was reduced with intervention or was no different. Other clinical outcomes also improved or were no worse with intervention. Patient-reported outcomes were not frequently reported. Cost and cost-effectiveness evidence came from 15 highly heterogeneous studies and was less conclusive.

Limitations

Studies were usually of moderate or weak quality. Some intervention or treatment types were under-reported or absent. The reporting of variance data often precluded secondary analysis.

Conclusions

Enhanced recovery and prehabilitation interventions were associated with reduced hospital stay without detriment to other clinical outcomes, particularly for patients undergoing colorectal surgery, lower limb arthroplasty or upper abdominal surgery. The impacts on patient-reported outcomes, health-care costs or additional service use are not well known.

Future work

Further studies evaluating of the effectiveness of new enhanced recovery pathways are not required in colorectal surgery or lower limb arthroplasty. However, the applicability of these pathways to other procedures is uncertain. Future studies should evaluate the implementation of interventions to reduce service variation, in-hospital patient-reported outcomes, impacts on health and social care service use, and longer-term patient-reported outcomes.

Study registration

This study is registered as PROSPERO CRD42017080637.

Funding

The National Institute for Health Research Health Services and Delivery Research programme.

Impact of Patient's Pain and Fatigue on Decision of Discharge After Laparoscopic Surgery for Colorectal Cancer

Purpose

Hospital stays after laparoscopic surgery for colorectal cancer tend to be much shorter than those after conventional open surgery. Many factors, including surgical outcomes and complications, are associated with patient discharge planning. However, few studies have analyzed the impact of patient subjective discomfort (including pain and fatigue) on the decision to discharge after surgery. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to determine how patient pain and fatigue play a role in the decision to discharge after laparoscopic surgery for colorectal cancer.

Methods

Between March 2014 and February 2015, we conducted a questionnaire survey of 91 patients who underwent laparoscopic surgery for colorectal cancer to estimate the expectation criteria for discharge and patient subjective discomfort at that time. Patients were divided into the following 2 groups: group A, those who complied with the medical professional’s decision to discharge; and group B, those who refused discharge despite the medical professional’s decision. The participants’ subjective factors were analyzed.

Results

Preoperatively, 78 of 91 patients (85.7%) identified activity level, amount of food (tolerance), and bowel movements as important factors that should be considered in the decision to discharge a patient postoperatively. Postoperatively, 17 patients (18.7%) refused discharge despite a discharge recommendation. Subjective pain and fatigue were significantly different in linear-by-linear association between the group of patients who agreed to be discharge and those who disagreed. Despite this difference, there was no significant difference in mean length of hospital stay between the 2 groups.

Conclusion

A patient’s subjective feelings of pain and fatigue can impact their decision regarding hospital discharge.

Improving Anemia in Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Impact of the Anemia Care Pathway

BACKGROUND

Anemia is a common complication of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Despite existing guidelines for anemia in IBD, it is frequently under-treated and the prevalence of anemia has remained high. To address this gap, the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation developed the Anemia Care Pathway (ACP).

AIMS

To implement the ACP in a managed care setting and identify where it improves practice habits and where barriers remain.

METHODS

The ACP was implemented from July 2016 through June 2017 and retrospectively studied. Run charts were used to identify shifts in iron deficiency screening and treatment as well as anemia prevalence. Results were compared to those of other providers in the same center not using the ACP.

RESULTS

640 IBD encounters were studied. In the ACP clinic (n = 213), anemics received iron therapy in only 30% of encounters at baseline but improved to 80%. Concurrently, anemia prevalence decreased from 48 to 25%. Screening for iron deficiency, however, did not improve. No shifts were seen in the non-ACP clinics (n = 427) across the same period despite awareness of the ACP and other guidelines.

CONCLUSIONS

Across 1 year, we observed gaps in the screening and treatment of anemia in IBD. Although screening rates did not improve, the ACP appeared to reduce missed opportunities for iron therapy by about half. Most importantly, this was associated with an overall decrease in anemia prevalence. Future refinements to the ACP should be focused on enhanced screening and follow-up.

Fast-track pathway for elective caesarean section: a quality improvement initiative to promote day 1 discharge

Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) aims to improve perioperative care, hasten recovery to the normal physiological state and shorten length of stay (LoS). There is evidence that ERAS programmes following elective caesarean section (ELCS) confer benefit through faster return to physiological state and reduced LoS for mother and baby. Baseline audit of ELCS in 2013 revealed a mean LoS of 3 days. We piloted an ERAS discharge pathway promoting day 2 discharge, which rose from 5.0% to 40.2%. 19.2% of women went home on day 1. Many women fed back that they would prefer day 1 discharge. We hypothesised that a day 1 discharge pathway for low-risk women could benefit both women and services at our maternity unit. From October 2015, we developed a 'fast-track pathway' (FTP) using a Plan-Do-Study-Act approach. Between October 2015 and April 2016, we prospectively audited clinical outcomes, LoS and maternal satisfaction from all women placed on the FTP. We held regular multidisciplinary team meetings to allow contemporaneous analysis. Satisfaction was analysed by Likert scale at postoperative surveys. Women were identified in antenatal clinic after meeting predefined low-risk criteria. 27.3% of women (n=131/479) delivering by ELCS entered the FTP. 76.2% of women on the FTP were discharged on day 1. Mean LoS fell to 1.31 days. 94.2% of women who established breast feeding at day 1 were still breast feeding at 7 days. Overall satisfaction at day 7 was 4.71 on a 5-point Likert scale. 73.1% of women reported good pain control. Additional financial savings are estimated at £99 886 annually. There were no related cases of readmission. Day 1 discharge after ELCS is safe and acceptable in carefully selected, low-risk women and has high satisfaction. There may be resultant financial savings and improved flow through a maternity unit with no detected adverse effect on breast feeding, maternal morbidity or postnatal readmissions.

Guidelines for Perioperative Care in Elective Colorectal Surgery: Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS®) Society Recommendations: 2018

BACKGROUND

This is the fourth updated Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS®) Society guideline presenting a consensus for optimal perioperative care in colorectal surgery and providing graded recommendations for each ERAS item within the ERAS® protocol.

METHODS

A wide database search on English literature publications was performed. Studies on each item within the protocol were selected with particular attention paid to meta-analyses, randomised controlled trials and large prospective cohorts and examined, reviewed and graded according to Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) system.

RESULTS

All recommendations on ERAS® protocol items are based on best available evidence; good-quality trials; meta-analyses of good-quality trials; or large cohort studies. The level of evidence for the use of each item is presented accordingly.

CONCLUSIONS

The evidence base and recommendation for items within the multimodal perioperative care pathway are presented by the ERAS® Society in this comprehensive consensus review.

Walking to recovery: the effects of missed ambulation events on postsurgical recovery after bowel resection

BACKGROUND

Early ambulation after surgery is demonstrated to reduce complications and decreases patient length of stay (LOS) as part of an enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) program. This study hypothesizes that missed and refused ambulation attempts prolong patient LOS.

METHODS

From January 2014 to December 2016, all patients admitted to one ward who had undergone bowel resection surgery were assigned a dedicated ambulation team with the goal of ambulating 3 times per day. Clinical data was collected prospectively. Statistical analysis of ambulation frequency, percentage of ambulation sessions completed and overall LOS was performed to test the hypothesis.

RESULTS

A total of 127 patients were analyzed for mean age, breakdown of laparoscopic/open procedures/pre-surgery ambulation status. The median LOS (mLOS) for all patients was 4.3 days. When ambulation was not offered for a 24-hour period, the mLOS increased from 3.6 to 6.6 days (P<0.001). When a patient refused to ambulate at any time, the mLOS increased from 4.0 to 4.7 days (P=0.004). There was a significant association between completed ambulation attempts and mLOS (r=-0.536, P<0.001). Increasing narcotic use (r=0.548, P<0.001) including the use of a patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) (r=0.213, P=0.011) increased mLOS.

CONCLUSIONS

Ambulation participation is a critical component of an enhanced bowel resection pathway. Non-compliance is associated with an increased LOS. Optimizing pain control, minimizing narcotics, and ensuring adequate ambulation resources also contribute to decreased LOS.

[Fast-tract: Therapist's role]

The modern model of inpatient surgical care of private and optimized state/govermental medical institutions allows us to change the paradigm of nosological attachment of the hospital bed to one profile of specialists for an adaptive model, when the wards can be reassigned depending on the needs of the hospital. In such multidisciplinary medical centers with mixed hospital beds without a nominal distinction in the nosological departments, a new therapeutic service is being developed - hospitalists, which provide a consistent curation of hospitalized patients, compensation of chronic therapeutic illnesses with patient's preparation for surgical interventions. Our work describes the experience of Fast Track recovery program with the active participation of a hospitalist in a surgical team, which is a new experience in the practice of Russian colorectal surgery.

Enhanced Recovery Protocols for Adults Undergoing Colorectal Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Enhanced surgical recovery protocols are designed to reduce hospital length of stay and health care costs.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to systematically review and summarize evidence from randomized and controlled clinical trials comparing enhanced recovery protocols versus usual care in adults undergoing elective colorectal surgery with emphasis on recent trials, protocol components, and subgroups for surgical approach and colorectal condition.

DATA SOURCES

MEDLINE from 2011 to July 2017; reference lists of existing systematic reviews and included studies were reviewed to identify all eligible trials published before 2011.

STUDY SELECTION

English language trials comparing a protocol of preadmission, preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative components with usual care in adults undergoing elective colorectal surgery were selected.

INTERVENTION

The enhanced recovery protocol for colorectal surgery was investigated.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Length of stay, perioperative morbidity, mortality, readmission within 30 days, and surgical site infection were the primary outcomes measured.

RESULTS

Twenty-five trials of open or laparoscopic surgery for cancer or noncancer conditions were included. Enhanced recovery protocols consisted of 4 to 18 components. Few studies fully described the various components. Length of stay (mean reduction, 2.6 days; 95% CI, -3.2 to -2.0) and risk of overall perioperative morbidity (risk ratio, 0.66; 95% CI, 0.54-0.80) were lower in enhanced recovery protocol groups than in usual care groups (moderate-quality evidence). All-cause mortality (rare), readmissions, and surgical site infection rates were similar between protocol groups (low-quality evidence). In predefined subgroup analyses, findings did not vary by surgical approach (open vs laparoscopic) or colorectal condition.

LIMITATIONS

Protocols varied across studies and little information was provided regarding compliance with, or implementation of, specific protocol components.

CONCLUSIONS

Enhanced recovery protocols for adults undergoing colorectal surgery improve patient outcomes with no increase in adverse events. Evidence was insufficient regarding which components, or component combinations, are key to improving patient outcomes. PROSPERO registration number: CRD42017067991.

Factors Influencing Length of Stay after Elective Bowel Resection within an Enhanced Recovery Protocol

A multimodality approach to enhance recovery after bowel surgery is demonstrated to reduce complications and decrease patient length of stay (LOS). This study evaluates the factors that influence patient LOS within a formal enhanced recovery protocol. From January 2014 to December 2016, all consecutive patients admitted to one ward, who had undergone bowel resection and were enrolled in an enhanced recovery protocol, were evaluated prospectively. We entered every patient's data into the American College of Surgeons Risk Calculator (ACSRC) to compare predicted versus actual outcomes. Statistical analysis of clinical factors, patient participation, and outcomes compared with the overall LOS was performed. Of 670 bowel resections performed during the study period, a total of 127 (19%) patients met the criteria and were analyzed for comorbidities, type of surgery, complications, and participation in recovery protocols. The median length of stay (mLOS) for all patients was 4.0 days (1.8–24.6 days). Factors influencing mLOS included laparoscopic versus open surgery (P = 0.006), COPD (P = 0.003), missing 24 hours of ambulation (P < 0.001), use of patient-controlled analgesia (P = 0.011), and diagnosis of insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (P = 0.041). Increasing the use of morphine equivalents (MEs) increased mLOS beyond the ACSRC estimate (P = 0.003). Developing a major complication increased mLOS by 8.5 times the ACSRC estimate. Conclusion: A multimodality approach to enhance surgical recovery after bowel surgery decreases the LOS. The surgical approach, participation in ambulation, insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus, and COPD influenced the overall LOS. Increasing use of morphine equivalents and developing a complication increased mLOS beyond the ACSRC preoperative risk estimates.

Feasibility of early postoperative mobilisation after colorectal surgery: A retrospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) guidelines advocate early postoperative mobilisation to counteract catabolic changes due to immobilisation and maintain muscle strength. The present study aimed to assess compliance to postoperative mobilisation according to ERAS recommendations.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This is a retrospective cohort study on consecutive colorectal surgical procedures treated within an established ERAS protocol within a single center between May 2011 and May 2017. Demographics, surgical details, ERAS related items and surgical outcome were prospectively assessed in a dedicated database and compared between ambulant patients (at least 6 h out of bed at postoperative day (POD) 1) vs. patients not meeting the target (delayed mobilisation). Risk factors for decreased postoperative mobilisation were identified through multivariable logistic regression.

RESULTS

1170 patients were retained. 676 patients (58%) did not mobilise as recommended by ERAS protocol at POD1. Emergency operation (Odds Ratio (OR) 0.40; 95% Confidence Interval (CI) 0.18-0.91, p = 0.028), age > 70 years (OR 0.69; 95% CI 0.47-1.00, p = 0.050) and intraoperative total fluids > 2000 mL (OR 0.59; 95% CI 0.37-0.93, p = 0.025) were independent risk factors for delayed mobilisation. Patients with delayed mobilisation had significantly more overall (Clavien grade IV) (55% vs. 29%, p=<0.001), major (Clavien grade IIIb-V) (16% vs. 7%, p=<0.001) and respiratory (12% vs. 4%, p=<0.001) complications, as well as longer length of stay (12 ± 14 vs. 6±7days, p=<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

More than half of patients did not mobilise as recommended by ERAS guidelines. Emergency surgery, advanced age and fluid overload were independent risk factors for delayed mobilisation, which was associated with increased postoperative complications.