Enhanced recovery program in colorectal surgery: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

The effect of postoperative respiratory and mobilization interventions on postoperative complications following abdominal surgery: a systematic review and meta-analysis

PURPOSE

Up to 30% of patients undergoing abdominal surgery suffer from postoperative pulmonary complications. The purpose of this systematic review and meta-analyses was to investigate whether postoperative respiratory interventions and mobilization interventions compared with usual care can prevent postoperative complications following abdominal surgery.

METHODS

The review was conducted in line with PRISMA and GRADE guidelines. MEDLINE, Embase, and PEDRO were searched for randomized controlled trials and observational studies comparing postoperative respiratory interventions and mobilization interventions with usual care in patients undergoing abdominal surgery. Meta-analyses with trial sequential analysis on the outcome pulmonary complications were performed. Review registration: PROSPERO (identifier: CRD42019133629) RESULTS: Pulmonary complications were addressed in 25 studies containing 2068 patients. Twenty-three studies were included in the meta-analyses. Patients predominantly underwent open elective upper abdominal surgery. Postoperative respiratory interventions consisted of expiratory resistance modalities (CPAP, EPAP, BiPAP, NIV), assisted inspiratory flow modalities (IPPB, IPAP), patient-operated ventilation modalities (spirometry, PEP), and structured breathing exercises. Meta-analyses found that ventilation with high expiratory resistance (CPAP, EPAP, BiPAP, NIV) reduced the risk of pulmonary complications with OR 0.42 (95% CI 0.18-0.97, p = 0.04, I2 = 0%) compared with usual care, however, the trial sequential analysis revealed that the required information size was not met. Neither postoperative assisted inspiratory flow therapy, patient-operated ventilation modalities, nor breathing exercises reduced the risk of pulmonary complications.

CONCLUSION

The use of postoperative expiratory resistance modalities (CPAP, EPAP, BiPAP, NIV) after abdominal surgery might prevent pulmonary complications and it seems the preventive abilities were largely driven by postoperative treatment with CPAP.

Same-day Discharge Is Safe and Effective After Implant-Based Breast Reconstruction

BACKGROUND

Same-day discharge after mastectomy is a recently described treatment approach. Limited data exist investigating whether same-day discharge can be successfully implemented in patients undergoing mastectomy with immediate implant-based breast reconstruction (IBR).

METHODS

Patients having mastectomy with IBR from 2013 to 2019 were reviewed. Enhanced recovery with same-day discharge was implemented in 2017. Patient characteristics, oncologic treatments, surgical techniques, and 90-day postoperative complications and reoperations were analyzed comparing enhanced recovery patients with historical controls.

RESULTS

A total of 363 patients underwent nipple-sparing (214, 59%) or skin-sparing (149, 41%) mastectomy with 1-stage (270, 74%) or tissue expander (93, 26%) IBR. Enhanced recovery was used for 151 patients, with 79 of these patients (52%) discharged same-day. Overall, enhanced recovery patients experienced a significantly lower rate of 90-day complications (21% vs 41%, P < 0.001), including hematoma (3% vs 11%, P = 0.002), mastectomy flap necrosis (7% vs 15%, P = 0.02), seroma (1% vs 9%, P < 0.001), and wound breakdown (3% vs 9%, P = 0.05). Postoperative complication rates did not significantly differ among enhanced recovery patients discharged same day. Postoperative admissions significantly decreased after enhanced recovery implementation (100% to 48%, P < 0.001), and admitted enhanced recovery patients experienced a lower length of stay (1.2 vs 1.8, P < 0.001). Enhanced recovery patients experienced a lower incidence of ≥1 unplanned reoperation (22% vs 33%, P = 0.01); overall average unplanned and total reoperations did not significantly differ between groups.

CONCLUSIONS

In conjunction with enhanced recovery practices, same-day discharge after mastectomy with IBR is a safe and feasible treatment approach.

Clinical and Economic Outcomes of Enhanced Recovery Dissemination in Michigan Hospitals

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate real-world effects of enhanced recovery protocol (ERP) dissemination on clinical and economic outcomes after colectomy.

SUMMARY BACKGROUND DATA

Hospitals aiming to accelerate discharge and reduce spending after surgery are increasingly adopting perioperative ERPs. Despite their efficacy in specialty institutions, most studies have lacked adequate control groups and diverse hospital settings and have considered only in-hospital costs. There remain concerns that accelerated discharge might incur unintended consequences.

METHODS

Retrospective, population-based cohort including patients in 72 hospitals in the Michigan Surgical Quality Collaborative clinical registry (N = 13,611) and/or Michigan Value Collaborative claims registry (N = 14,800) who underwent elective colectomy, 2012 to 2018. Marginal effects of ERP on clinical outcomes and risk-adjusted, price-standardized 90-day episode payments were evaluated using mixed-effects models to account for secular trends and hospital performance unrelated to ERP.

RESULTS

In 24 ERP hospitals, patients Post-ERP had significantly shorter length of stay than those Pre-ERP (5.1 vs 6.5 days, P < 0.001), lower incidence of complications (14.6% vs 16.9%, P < 0.001) and readmissions (10.4% vs 11.3%, P = 0.02), and lower episode payments ($28,550 vs $31,192, P < 0.001) and postacute care ($3,384 vs $3,909, P < 0.001). In mixed-effects adjusted analyses, these effects were significantly attenuated-ERP was associated with a marginal length of stay reduction of 0.4 days (95% confidence interval 0.2-0.6 days, P = 0.001), and no significant difference in complications, readmissions, or overall spending.

CONCLUSIONS

ERPs are associated with small reduction in postoperative length of hospitalization after colectomy, without unwanted increases in readmission or postacute care spending. The real-world effects across a variety of hospitals may be smaller than observed in early-adopting specialty centers.

Efficacy and safety of early oral feeding in postoperative patients with upper gastrointestinal tumor: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Early oral feeding (EOF) is an important measure for early recovery of patients with gastrointestinal tumors after surgery, which has emerged as a safe and effective postoperative strategy for improving clinical outcomes.

AIM

To determine the safety and efficacy of early oral feeding in postoperative patients with upper gastrointestinal tumor.

METHODS

This meta-analysis was analyzed using Review Manager version 5.3 and Stata version 14. All clinical studies that analyzed efficacy and safety of EOF for postoperative patients with upper gastrointestinal tumor were included.

RESULTS

Fifteen studies comprising 2100 adult patients met all the inclusion criteria. A significantly lower risk of pneumonia was presented in the EOF compared with TOF group [relative risk (RR) = 0.63, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.44–0.89, P = 0.01]. Length of hospital stay was significantly shorter in the EOF group than in the TOF group [weighted mean difference (WMD) = -1.91, 95%CI: -2.42 to -1.40; P < 0.01]. Cost of hospitalization was significantly lower (WMD = -4.16, 95%CI: -5.72 to -2.61; P < 0.01), and CD4 cell count and CD4/CD8 cell ratio on postoperative day 7 were significantly higher in the EOF group than in the TOF group: CD4 count (WMD = 7.17, 95%CI: 6.48–7.85; P < 0.01), CD4/CD8 ratio (WMD = 0.29, 95%CI: 0.23–0.35; P < 0.01). There was no significant difference in risk of anastomotic leak and total postoperative complications.

CONCLUSION

EOF as compared with TOF was associated with lower risk of pneumonia, shorter hospital length of stay, lower cost of hospitalization, and significantly improved postoperative immune function of patients.

Improving postoperative outcome in rectal cancer surgery: Enhanced Recovery After Surgery in an era of increasing laparoscopic resection

PURPOSE

The Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocol reduces complications and length of stay (LOS) in colon cancer, but implementation in rectal cancer is different because of neo-adjuvant therapy and surgical differences. Laparoscopic resection may further improve outcome. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of introducing ERAS on postoperative outcome after rectal cancer resection in an era of increasing laparoscopic resections.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Patients who underwent elective rectal cancer surgery from 2009 till 2015 were included in this observational cohort study. In 2010, ERAS was introduced and adherence to the protocol was registered. Open and laparoscopic resections were compared. With regression analysis, predictive factors for postoperative outcome and LOS were identified.

RESULTS

A total of 499 patients were included. The LOS decreased from 12.3 days in 2009 to 5.7 days in 2015 (p = 0.000). Surgical site infections were reduced from 24% in 2009 to 5% in 2015 (p = 0.013) and postoperative ileus from 39% in 2009 to 6% in 2015 (p = 0.000). Only postoperative ERAS items and laparoscopic surgery were associated with an improved postoperative outcome and shorter LOS.

CONCLUSIONS

ERAS proved to be feasible, safe, and contributed to improving short-term outcome in rectal cancer resections. The benefits of laparoscopic surgery may in part be explained by reaching better ERAS adherence rates. However, the laparoscopic approach was also associated with anastomotic leakage. Despite the potential of bias, this study provides an insight in effects of ERAS and laparoscopic surgery in a non-randomized real-time setting.

The Perioperative Surgical Home, Enhanced Recovery After Surgery and how integration of these models may improve care for medically complex patients

Perioperative medicine is changing rapidly, and with this change comes the opportunity to improve upon current models of care delivery and integration within the health care system. Perioperative models of care are structured or conceptual arrangements for surgical patients before, during and after their surgery. Models of care such as the Perioperative Surgical Home and Enhanced Recovery After Surgery pathways are increasingly used to guide the structure of perioperative care delivery with an aim to improve patient outcomes and experience in Canadian settings. In this narrative review, we summarize the origins of these perioperative models of care. They are fundamentally different in scope and level of evidence. Both models have potential benefits and limitations to their broad implementation in our health care system. As currently developed, both models are limited in their application to patients with chronic disease. We discuss how these models of care can be used to develop integrated horizontal and vertical perioperative pathways in a Canadian setting. Such integration is a potential solution that will improve their applicability to patients with medically complex conditions and in times when health care systems are under pressure. We describe this approach using the example of patients with kidney failure receiving dialysis.

The feasibility of implementing an enhanced recovery programme in patients undergoing pelvic exenteration

BACKGROUND

Pelvic exenteration (PE) is a complex operative procedure, reserved for patients with locally advanced and recurrent pelvic malignancies. PE is associated with a high index of post-operative morbidity. Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) programmes have been successful in improving postoperative outcomes, however, its application in PE has not been studied. The aim of our study is to assess the feasibility and short-term impact of ERAS on PE.

METHODS

A dedicated PE ERAS programme was developed reflecting the complexity of differing subtypes of PE. A prospective cohort study was undertaken to evaluate the feasibility of implementing our PE ERAS between 2016 and 2020. The primary endpoint of this study was overall compliance with the ERAS programme.

RESULTS

145 patients were enrolled into our PE ERAS programme, with 86 (56.2%) patients undergoing a soft tissue PE, 27 (17.6%) a vascular PE and 32 (20.9%) a bony PE. The median overall compliance to the PE ERAS programme was 70% (IQR 55.5-88.8). There were no observed differences between overall compliance to the PE ERAS programme between different subtypes of PE (p = 0.60). Patients with higher compliance with the PE ERAS programme had a shorter LoS (p < 0.001), less post-operative morbidity (p < 0.001), reduced severity of Clavien-Dindo grade of morbidity (p < 0.001) and fewer readmissions (p = 0.03).

CONCLUSIONS

The principles of ERAS can be readily applied to patients undergoing PE, with high adherence to the ERAS programme associated with improved clinical outcomes.

Transition from hospital to home after elective colorectal surgery performed in an enhanced recovery program: An integrative review

AIM

This study aimed to investigate the transition from hospital to home after elective colorectal surgery performed in an Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) programme.

DESIGN

An integrative review.

METHODS

A search of ten electronic databases was conducted. Data extraction and quality assessment were performed independently by two authors. Data analysis and synthesis were based on Meleis' Transitions Theory (2010).

RESULTS

Forty-two articles were included, and most (N = 27) were of good or very good quality. The researchers identified five categories to document the nature of transition postsurgery, three conditions affecting such transition, eleven indicators informing about the quality of the transition and several nursing interventions. Overall, this review revealed that the transition from hospital to home after ERAS colorectal surgery is complex. A holistic understanding of this phenomenon may help nurses to recognize what they need to do to optimize the in-home recovery of this clientele.

Conceptual Frameworks of Postoperative Recovery: A Scoping Review

OBJECTIVE

We conducted a scoping review to identify existing conceptual frameworks of postoperative recovery (PR) and assess their content.

BACKGROUND

PR is increasingly recognized by providers and third-party payers as a multidimensional phenomenon. Efforts to optimize PR and reduce complications and readmissions continue to evolve through changes in care (i.e., enhanced recovery protocols) and financial incentives. Delineating all factors affecting PR using a conceptual framework should aid in the design of effective interventions.

METHODS

Web of Science and PubMed were queried to identify articles, between January 1980 and August of 2019, about conceptual frameworks of PR, using the search terms: "concept," "model," "framework," "recovery after surgery," "conceptual framework" "postoperative," "surgery," and "children." Articles considering PR as a concept rather than an outcome were included. Articles were examined in accordance with Walker and Avant's method for the concept analysis. Concepts identified across articles were classified as domains and subdomains of PR.

RESULTS

The search yielded 183 unique articles; 8 met inclusion/exclusion criteria. Most articles defined PR as a period of days to weeks (n = 7) rather than days (n = 1). PR was mostly conceptualized as a process involving the patient and the health care system (n = 4) rather than the patient alone (n = 2). Physiological recovery (n = 8), activities of daily living (n = 8), pain (n = 5), cognitive/psychological recovery (n = 4), social recovery (n = 2), and patient perspective (n = 1) were the identified domains. Existing patient-reported outcome measures were used to assess most PR domains; however, definitions of domains and subdomains differed. None of the PR conceptual frameworks included were specific to children.

CONCLUSIONS

There are few conceptual frameworks of PR in adults, and the definitions of PR differ. No framework was specific to children. Consensus on a conceptual framework of PR in adults and development of a conceptual framework of PR specific to children are needed.

ESPEN practical guideline: Clinical nutrition in surgery

Early oral feeding is the preferred mode of nutrition for surgical patients. Avoidance of any nutritional therapy bears the risk of underfeeding during the postoperative course after major surgery. Considering that malnutrition and underfeeding are risk factors for postoperative complications, early enteral feeding is especially relevant for any surgical patient at nutritional risk, especially for those undergoing upper gastrointestinal surgery. The focus of this guideline is to cover both nutritional aspects of the Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) concept and the special nutritional needs of patients undergoing major surgery, e.g. for cancer, and of those developing severe complications despite best perioperative care. From a metabolic and nutritional point of view, the key aspects of perioperative care include the integration of nutrition into the overall management of the patient, avoidance of long periods of preoperative fasting, re-establishment of oral feeding as early as possible after surgery, the start of nutritional therapy immediately if a nutritional risk becomes apparent, metabolic control e.g. of blood glucose, reduction of factors which exacerbate stress-related catabolism or impaired gastrointestinal function, minimized time on paralytic agents for ventilator management in the postoperative period, and early mobilization to facilitate protein synthesis and muscle function.

Enhanced Recovery Protocol Enhances Postdischarge Recovery After Laparoscopic Sacrocolpopexy

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study is to determine if an ERAS (enhanced recovery after surgery) protocol enhanced the patient-perceived postdischarge recovery after laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy.

METHODS

In this prospective cohort study, patients exposed to an ERAS protocol completed a preoperative survey that included established predictors of postdischarge recovery. Postoperatively, they completed the validated Postdischarge Surgical Recovery 13 (PSR-13) scale at 7, 14, and 42 days. A historical cohort of non-ERAS patients who completed similar surveys were included for comparisons. Characteristics between the 2 cohorts were analyzed using the χ2 test, Student t tests, and Mann-Whitney U tests where appropriate. A mixed-design analysis of variance model was constructed to determine if our ERAS protocol affected recovery as measured by the PSR-13 scale.

RESULTS

Eighty-nine ERAS patients were compared with 169 non-ERAS controls. There were no differences in established predictors of recovery between the groups. Length of hospital stay was shorter in the ERAS cohort (33±13.1 hours vs 44.2±25.9 hours; mean difference, 11.2; 95% confidence interval [CI], 6.44-16.0). Postdischarge recovery significantly improved with time (7 days: 52.7; 95% CI, 50.1-55.2; 14 days: 63.4; 95% CI, 60.9-65.8; 42 days: 80.1, 95% CI, 78.1-82.1). The ERAS cohort reported greater postdischarge recovery than the non-ERAS cohort (as measured by the PSR-13 scale) at postoperative days 7, 14, and 42 days (68.4 vs 62.3; mean difference, 6.1; 95% CI, 2.04-10.16).

CONCLUSIONS

Enhanced recovery after surgery protocols reduce length of hospital stay and enhance patient-perceived postdischarge recovery.

A Prediction Model for Severe Complications after Elective Colorectal Cancer Surgery in Patients of 70 Years and Older

Introduction Older patients have an increased risk of morbidity and mortality after colorectal cancer (CRC) surgery. Existing CRC surgical prediction models have not incorporated geriatric predictors, limiting applicability for preoperative decision-making. The objective was to develop and internally validate a predictive model based on preoperative predictors, including geriatric characteristics, for severe postoperative complications after elective surgery for stage I-III CRC in patients ≥70 years.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A prospectively collected database contained 1088 consecutive patients from five Dutch hospitals (2014-2017) with 171 severe complications (16%). The least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) method was used for predictor selection and prediction model building. Internal validation was done using bootstrapping.

RESULTS

A geriatric model that included gender, previous DVT or pulmonary embolism, COPD/asthma/emphysema, rectal cancer, the use of a mobility aid, ADL assistance, previous delirium and polypharmacy showed satisfactory discrimination with an AUC of 0.69 (95% CI 0.73-0.64); the AUC for the optimism corrected model was 0.65. Based on these predictors, the eight-item colorectal geriatric model (GerCRC) was developed.

CONCLUSION

The GerCRC is the first prediction model specifically developed for older patients expected to undergo CRC surgery. Combining tumour- and patient-specific predictors, including geriatric predictors, improves outcome prediction in the heterogeneous older population.

Implementation barriers for Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) in rectal cancer surgery: a comparative analysis of compliance with colon cancer surgeries

We aim to analyze differences in compliance between colon and rectal cancer surgeries under Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) for colorectal procedures, and to detect implementation barriers for rectal cancer surgeries. Patients who underwent elective rectal cancer surgeries under ERAS were case-matched based on gender, age, and P-POSSUM with an equal number of patients who underwent colonic surgeries. Achievements of ≥ 70% of ERAS items were considered an acceptable level of compliance. A multivariate analysis was carried out to identify independent risk factors for lower compliance. A total of 434 patients were included over a 5-year period. After matching, there were 111 patients in each group. Overall compliance was significantly lower in the rectal surgery group (73% vs 82%, p = 0.001). A good compliance rate differed from 55% in rectal vs 77.5% in colonic procedures (p = 0.000). We identified three independent risk factors for lower compliance rates: open surgical approach, the use of epidural catheter, and the presence of postoperative ileus. Our data showed that rectal cancer surgeries are more exigent to success on ERAS interventions when compared to colonic resections. There is a need to introduce specific modifications on the protocols for colorectal surgeries when applied to these particular procedures.

A systematic review of living kidney donor enhanced recovery after surgery

Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) reduces complications and shortens hospital stay without increasing readmission or mortality. However, its role in living donor nephrectomy (LDN) has not yet been defined. Medline, Embase, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and Cochrane Central were searched prior to 08/01/21 for all randomized controlled and cohort studies comparing ERAS to standard of care in LDN. The study was registered on PROSPERO (CRD: CRD42019141706). One thousand, three hundred seventy-seven patients were identified from 14 studies (698 patients with ERAS and 679 patients without). There were considerable differences in the protocols used, and compliance with general ERAS recommendations was poor. Meta-analysis of laparoscopic procedures (including hand- and robot-assisted) revealed that duration of stay was significantly reduced by 0.98 days with ERAS (95% CI = 0.36-1.60, P = .002) and opiate requirement by 32.4 mg (95% CI = 1.1-63.7, P = .04). There was no significant difference n readmission rates or complications. Quality of evidence was low to moderate assessed using the GRADE tool. This review suggests there is a positive benefit of ERAS in laparoscopic LDN. However, there was considerable variation in ERAS protocols used, and the quality of evidence was low; as such, a guideline for ERAS in LDN should be developed and validated.

Impact of STIMUlant and osmotic LAXatives (STIMULAX trial) on gastrointestinal recovery after colorectal surgery: randomized clinical trial

BACKGROUND

Recovery of gastrointestinal (GI) function is often delayed after colorectal surgery. Enhanced recovery protocols (ERPs) recommend routine laxative use, but evidence of benefit is unclear. This study aimed to investigate whether the addition of multimodal laxatives to an ERP improves return of GI function in patients undergoing colorectal surgery.

METHODS

This was a single-centre, parallel, open-label RCT. All adult patients undergoing elective colorectal resection or having stoma formation or reversal at the Royal Adelaide Hospital between August 2018 and May 2020 were recruited into the study. The STIMULAX group received oral Coloxyl® with senna and macrogol, with a sodium phosphate enema in addition for right-sided operations. The control group received standard ERP postoperative care. The primary outcome was GI-2, a validated composite measure defined as the interval from surgery until first passage of stool and tolerance of solid intake for 24 h in the absence of vomiting. Secondary outcomes were the incidence of prolonged postoperative ileus (POI), duration of hospital stay, and postoperative complications. The analysis was performed on an intention-to-treat basis.

RESULTS

Of a total of 170 participants, 85 were randomized to each group. Median GI-2 was 1 day shorter in the STIMULAX compared with the control group (median 2  (i.q.r. 1.5-4) versus 3 (2-5.5) days; 95 per cent c.i. -1 to 0 days; P = 0.029). The incidence of prolonged POI was lower in the STIMULAX group (22 versus 38 per cent; relative risk reduction 42 per cent; P = 0.030). There was no difference in duration of hospital day or 30-day postoperative complications (including anastomotic leak) between the STIMULAX and control groups.

CONCLUSION

Routine postoperative use of multimodal laxatives after elective colorectal surgery results in earlier recovery of gastrointestinal function and reduces the incidence of prolonged POI. Registration number: ACTRN12618001261202 (www.anzctr.org.au).

Implementation of the ERAS (Enhanced Recovery After Surgery) protocol for colorectal cancer surgery in the Piemonte Region with an Audit and Feedback approach: study protocol for a stepped wedge cluster randomised trial: a study of the EASY-NET project

INTRODUCTION

The ERAS protocol (Enhanced Recovery After Surgery) is a multimodal pathway aimed to reduce surgical stress and to allow a rapid postoperative recovery. Application of the ERAS protocol to colorectal cancer surgery has been limited to a minority of hospitals in Italy. To promote the systematic adoption of ERAS in the entire regional hospital network in Piemonte an Audit and Feedback approach (A&F) has been adopted together with a cluster randomised trial to estimate the true impact of the protocol on a large, unselected population.

METHODS

A multicentre stepped wedge cluster randomised trial is designed for comparison between standard perioperative management and the management according to the ERAS protocol. The primary outcome is the length of hospital stay (LOS). Secondary outcomes are: incidence of postoperative complications, time to patients' recovery, control of pain and patients' satisfaction. With an A&F approach the adherence to the ERAS items is monitored through a dedicated area in the study web site. The study includes 28 surgical centres, stratified by activity volume and randomly divided into four groups. Each group is randomly assigned to a different activation period of the ERAS protocol. There are four activation periods, one every 3 months. However, the planned calendar and the total duration of the study have been extended by 6 months due to the COVID-19 pandemic.The expected sample size of about 2200 patients has a high statistical power (98%) to detect a reduction of LOS of 1 day and to estimate clinically meaningful changes in the other endpoints.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

The study protocol has been approved by the Ethical Committee of the coordinating centre and by all participating centres. Study results will be timely circulated within the hospital network and published in peer-reviewed journals.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT04037787.

Post-Cesarean Opioid Use after Implementation of Enhanced Recovery after Surgery Protocol

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to evaluate whether implementation of an enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocol is associated with lower maternal opioid use after cesarean delivery (CD).

STUDY DESIGN

We performed a pre- and postimplementation (PRE and POST, respectively) study of an ERAS protocol for cesarean deliveries. ERAS is a multimodal, multidisciplinary perioperative approach. The four pillars of our protocol include education, pain management, nutrition, and early ambulation. Patients were counseled by their outpatient providers and given an educational booklet. Pain management included gabapentin and acetaminophen immediately prior to spinal anesthesia. Postoperatively patients received scheduled acetaminophen and ibuprofen. Oxycodone was initiated as needed 24 hours after spinal analgesia. Preoperative diet consisted of clear carbohydrate drink consumed 2 hours prior to scheduled operative time with advancement as tolerated immediately postoperation. Women with a body mass index (BMI) <40 kg/m² and scheduled CD were eligible for ERAS. PRE patients were randomly selected from repeat cesarean deliveries (RCDs) at a single site from October 2017 to September 2018, BMI <40 kg/m², without trial of labor. The POST cohort included women who participated in ERAS from October 2018 to June 2019. PRE and POST demographic and clinical characteristics were compared. Primary outcome was total postoperative morphine milligram equivalents (MMEs). Secondary outcomes included length of stay (LOS) and maximum postoperative day 2 (POD2) pain score.

RESULTS

All women in PRE (n = 70) had RCD compared with 66.2% (49/74) in POST. Median total postoperative MMEs were 140.0 (interquartile range [IQR]: 87.5-182.5) in PRE compared with 0.0 (IQR: 0.0-72.5) in POST (p < 0.001). Median LOS in PRE was 4.02 days (IQR: 3.26-4.27) compared with 2.37 days (IQR: 2.21-3.26) in POST (p < 0.001). Mean maximum POD2 pain score was 5.28 (standard deviation [SD] = 1.86) in PRE compared with 4.67 (SD = 1.63) in POST (p = 0.04).

CONCLUSION

ERAS protocol was associated with decreased postoperative opioid use, shorter LOS, and decreased pain after CD.

KEY POINTS

· ERAS protocol was associated with decreased postoperative opioid use after CD.. · ERAS protocol was associated with shorter length of stay after CD.. · ERAS protocol was associated with decreased postoperative pain after CD..

Multidisciplinary consensus on nutritional and metabolic therapy in enhanced recovery after abdominal surgery programs: NutRICA Project

BACKGROUND

The Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) care pathways include evidence-based items designed to accelerate recovery after surgery. Interdisciplinarity is one of the key points of ERAS programs.

OBJECTIVE

To prepare a consensus document among the members of the Nutrition Area of the Spanish Society of Endocrinology and Nutrition (SEEN) and the Spanish Group for Multimodal Rehabilitation (GERM), in which the goal is to homogenize the nutritional and metabolic management of patients included in an ERAS program.

METHODS

69 specialists in Endocrinology and Nutrition and 85 members of the GERM participated in the project. After a literature review, 79 statements were proposed, divided into 5 sections: 17 of general characteristics, 28 referring to the preoperative period, 4 to the intraoperative, 13 to the perioperative and 17 to the postoperative period. The degree of consensus was determined through a Delphi process of 2 circulations that was ratified by a consistency analysis.

RESULTS

Overall, in 61 of the 79 statements there was a consistent agreement, with the degree of consensus being greater among members of the SEEN (64/79) than members of the GERM (59/79). Within the 18 statements where a consistent agreement was not reached, we should highlight some important nutritional strategies such as muscle mass assessment, the start of early oral feeding or pharmaconutrition.

CONCLUSION

Consensus was reached on the vast majority of the nutritional measures and care included in ERAS programs. Due to the lack of agreement on certain key points, it is necessary to continue working closely with both societies to improve the recovery of the surgical patients.

Intraperitoneal local anaesthesia for post-operative pain management in patients undergoing laparoscopic colorectal surgery: a systematic review and meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION

Intraperitoneal instillation of local anaesthetic agents has been reported as an effective adjunct to pain management and early functional recovery in colorectal surgery. Laparoscopic colorectal resection (LCR) is considered as the gold standard approach to resect benign and malignant lesions of the colon and rectum due to the advantages of reduced pain score, quicker recovery, and shorter hospitalization. The objective of this study is to systematically analyze the published RCTs evaluating the effectiveness of intraperitoneal local anesthetic (IPLA) instillation versus standard analgesia in patients undergoing LCR.

EVIDENCE ANALYSIS

Electronic databases such as Embase, Medline, PubMed, PubMed Central and the Cochrane library pertaining to the use of IPLA infiltration after LCR were systematically reviewed using the principles of meta-analysis.

EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS

Five RCTs on 292 patients undergoing LCR were either given IPLA or standard post-operative analgesia. In the random-effects model analysis using the statistical software Review Manager, statistically 2-4 hours pain score (Standardized mean difference (SMD), -1.72; 95% CI, -2.62, -0.81; z = 3.71; P = 0.0002) was significantly ower in the IPLA group. The 12 hours post-operative pain score (P = 0.23) was also lower in the IPLA group but failed to reach the statistical significance. Opioid analgesia requirement was lower in the IPLA group (SMD -7.60; 95% CI, -11.21, -3.90; z = 4.12; P = 0.0001) but the time to flatus, length of stay and the frequency of nausea/vomiting were statistically similar in both groups.

CONCLUSIONS

IPLA instillation is an effective modality to reduce the post-operative pain score and lower the opioid analgesic requirements in patients undergoing LCR without influencing the time to first flatus, length of stay, and post-operative nausea/vomiting.

Enhanced Recovery after Renal Transplantation Decreases Recipients' Urological Complications and Hospital Stay: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

The objective of this study was to compare enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) against traditional perioperative care for renal transplant recipients. Outcome measures included complications, length of stay (LOS), readmission rates, graft and patient survival up to one-year post-transplant. We initially screened Medline, Cochrane, Scopus, Embase and Web of Science databases. We identified 3029 records. From these, 114 full texts were scrutinized for inclusion. Finally, 10 studies were included in the meta-analysis corresponding to 2037 renal transplant recipients. ERAS resulted in lower incidence of urological complications (95CI: 0.276, 0.855) (I2 = 53.08%) compared to traditional perioperative practice. This referred to ureteric stenoses (95CI: 0.186-0.868) (I2 = 0%) and urinary tract infections (95CI: 0.230-0.978) (I2 = 71.55%). ERAS decreased recipients' LOS (95CI: -2.876, -0.835) (I2 = 86.55%). Compared to standard practice, ERAS protocols did not increase unplanned readmissions (95CI:0.800, 1.680) (I2 = 0%). Up to one-year post-transplant, graft survival rates were similar across the ERAS and the control groups (95CI:0.420, 1.722) (I2 = 0%). There was also no difference in recipients' one-year post-transplant survival (95CI:0.162, 3.586) (I2 = 0%). Our results suggest that ERAS protocols can be safely incorporated in the perioperative care of renal transplant recipients, decrease their urological complications and shorten their length of hospital stay without affecting unplanned readmission rates.

Impact of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs on the efficiency of enhanced recovery programmes after colorectal surgery: a retrospective study of the GRACE database

BACKGROUND

Multimodal analgesia is considered a key element of enhanced recovery programmes (ERPs) after colorectal surgery. We investigated the effects of NSAIDs, a major component of multimodal analgesia on adherence to ERP, incidence of postoperative complications, and length of hospital stay (LOS).

METHODS

This was a retrospective study of the GRACE database that included 8611 patients scheduled for colorectal surgery with an ERP between February 2016 and November 2019. Primary endpoints were adherence to the postoperative protocol, the rate and type of postoperative complications, and LOS. Data are median [IQR] and number (per cent). Multivariate models were used to assess the effects of NSAIDs on these variables taking into account potential confounding factors.

RESULTS

Data from 8258 patients were analysed and classified into four groups according to whether NSAIDs had been given intra- and/or postoperatively or not at all; 4578 patients were given NSAIDs intra- and/or postoperatively and 3680 patients received no NSAIDs. Use of NSAIDs was significantly (P<0.001) associated with improved adherence to the postoperative protocol (4.0 [3.0-4.0] vs. 3.0 [2.0-4.0] items), a reduced incidence of complications (21.1% vs. 29.2%), and a shortened LOS (5.0 [3.0-7.0] vs. 6.0 [4.0-9.0] days) compared to the no-NSAIDs group. Multivariate analyses adjusted for the confounding factors confirmed a significant (P<0.001) beneficial impact of NSAIDs on these three primary endpoints.

CONCLUSION

This study suggests that perioperative NSAID use results in better adherence to the postoperative protocol, fewer postoperative in-hospital complications, and shorter LOS after colorectal surgery.

Impact of Preoperative Anemia on Outcomes of Enhanced Recovery Program After Colorectal Surgery: A Monocentric Retrospective Study

BACKGROUND

Anemia is common before major abdominal surgery (35%). It is an independent factor for postoperative complications and longer length of stay (LOS). The aim of this study was to evaluate the extent to which preoperative anemia impacts on enhanced recovery programs (ERP) outcomes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The data for patients scheduled for colorectal surgery between 2015 and 2019, were analyzed (n = 494). All patients were managed with the same ERP. Demographic data, preoperative risk factors, postoperative complications, LOS and adherence to ERP were compared between anemic and non-anemic patients. Anemia was defined by a hemoglobin concentration < 13 g dL^-1 in men and < 12 g dL^-1 in women.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

In total, 173 patients had preoperative anemia. They were older (p < 0.001) and more often male (p = 0.02). The following risk factors were significantly more frequent in the anemic group: renal failure (p = 0.04), malnutrition (p < 0.001), cardiac arrhythmia (p < 0.001), coronaropathy (p = 0.02) and anticoagulant treatment (p < 0.001). Despite more risk factors, anemic patients did not experience more postoperative complications (38.2% vs. 31.2%, p = 0.12). Overall adherence to ERP was similar (18 [16-19] vs. 18 [17-19], p = 0.06). LOS was 4 [3-7] and 3 [2-6.25] days in the anemic and the non-anemic groups, respectively (p < 0.002). Multivariate analysis showed that anemia did not affect LOS (p = 0.27).

CONCLUSION

Our study suggests that preoperative anemia does not detract from the benefits of ERP after elective colorectal surgery.

Enhanced perioperative nutritional care for patients undergoing elective colorectal surgery at Calvary North Adelaide Hospital: a best practice implementation project

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this project was to evaluate the current practice and implement best practice related to Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) nutrition care protocols amongst elective colorectal surgery patients at Calvary North Adelaide Hospital. A second aim was to improve outcomes regarding length of hospital stay and rate of unplanned readmissions within 28-days in patients undergoing elective colorectal surgery.

INTRODUCTION

The rate of postoperative morbidity remains high after elective colorectal surgery. Enhanced Recovery After Surgery is an evidence-based program incorporating multimodal interventions (including nutrition interventions) in the perioperative period to reduce postoperative morbidity and expedite recovery.

METHODS

This evidence implementation project used the JBI Practical Application of Clinical Evidence System (JBI PACES) and Getting Research into Practice (GRiP) audit and feedback tool. This project was conducted across the preadmission clinic, intensive care unit and surgical wards of a 153-bed, private, acute care hospital in Australia, along with five private surgical clinics. The sample size included 20 patients undergoing elective colorectal surgery and five colorectal surgeons. Seven audit criteria based on the ERAS Society nutrition care protocols for elective colorectal surgery were used, and patient outcomes were length of stay and rate of unplanned readmission within 28 days. A pre-implementation audit was conducted, which informed the development of an implementation plan for ERAS nutrition care protocols using the GRiP analysis. A follow-up audit was conducted to measure change in practice and patient outcomes.

RESULTS

Improvement in compliance was observed in four audit criteria: preoperative fasting is minimized (from 0% to 15%), early feeding is implemented postoperatively (from 10% to 65%), preoperative carbohydrate drinks are given (from 20% to 25%) and oral supplements are given postoperatively (from 0% to 20%). Compliance for one audit criterion remained constant: patients are screened for malnutrition risk in preadmission clinic (100% for both audits). Two audit criteria saw a drop in compliance: nutrition support is provided preoperatively to malnourished patients (from 60% to 15%) and nutrition education is provided preoperatively (from 60% to 20%). There was a 2.5-day reduction in length of stay (average 10.8 days length of stay pre-implementation versus 8.3 days post-implementation) and an increase from 0% to 20% in the rate of unplanned readmissions within 28 days post-implementation; however, these were not statistically significant (p = 0.7 and p = 0.11, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Changes in patient outcomes could not be attributed to the implementation of ERAS nutrition care protocols, given the mixed compliance with audit criteria in the post-implementation audit. This project has, however, raised awareness of the importance of having operational definitions for audit criteria, systems to ensure adherence to protocols, and audits of calendar year data for reliability and validity of results. It has also increased knowledge of ERAS nutrition care protocols amongst those involved in the care of patients undergoing elective colorectal surgery and strengthened relationships within the multidisciplinary team. This project represents the first step toward the development of an effective ERAS nutrition care program for patients underoing elective colorectal surgery at Calvary North Adelaide Hospital and informs future audits and feedback cycles.

Proposal and Validation of a New Classification of Surgical Outcomes after Colorectal Resections within an Enhanced Recovery Programme

Background

Advantages of Enhanced Recovery (ER) programmes in colorectal surgery have already been demonstrated, but heterogeneity exists with respect to the choice of compared outcomes. A comprehensive classification aimed at standardizing the reporting of surgical outcomes has been proposed and validated.

Method

Clinical variables of 231 patients who underwent colorectal resections within an ER programme from 2013–2018 were analysed. Their outcomes have been reported according to a new classification in 5 classes and 11 subclasses. Prognostic variables have been identified.

Results

Seventy-nine patients (34.2%) had an optimal class 1 outcome. Almost half of the patients had an uneventful recovery after being discharged after day 4 (2a). Only two patients (0.9%) were discharged early and then readmitted for a minor ailment (2b). Total morbidity was 12.6% (3a–5). Perioperative mortality was 2.6% (5). Young age, laparoscopic resection, and years of experience with ER have been identified as independent prognostic factors towards a totally positive outcome.

Conclusions

The proposed outcome classification is a simple and objective tool to report the surgical outcome in clinical studies. Its implementation seems to be appropriate, in particular, in the field of ER protocols in colorectal surgery, but it can have a wider application in any other surgical subspeciality.

Conditions associated with worse acceptance of a simplified accelerated recovery after surgery protocol in laparoscopic colorectal surgery

Background

Enhanced Recovery Surgical Programs were initially applied to colorectal procedures and used as multimodal approach to relieve the response to surgical stress. An important factor that negatively impacts the success of these programs is the poor tolerance of these patients to certain items in the adopted protocol, especially with regard to post-operative measures. The identification of these factors may help to increase the success rate of such programs, ensuring that benefits reach a greater number of patients and that resources are better allocated. Thus, the aims of this study were to assess the results of the implementation of a Simplified Accelerated Recovery Protocol (SARP) and to identify possible factors associated with failure to implement postoperative protocol measures in patients submitted to laparoscopic colorectal surgery.

Methods

161 patients were randomly divided into two groups. The SARP group (n = 84) was submitted to the accelerated recovery program and the CC group (n = 77), to conventional postoperative care. The SARP group was further divided into two subgroups: patients who tolerated the protocol (n = 51) and those who did not (n = 33), in order to analyze factors contributing to protocol nontolerance.

Results

The groups had similar sociodemographic and clinical characteristics. The SARP group had a shorter hospital stay, better elimination of flatus, was able to walk and to tolerate a diet sooner (p < 0.0001). Complications rates and readmissions to emergency room were similar between groups. Multivariate analysis revealed that prolonged operating time, stoma creation and rates of surgical complications were independently associated with poor adherence to SARP (p < 0.0001).

Conclusions

The use of our SARP resulted in improved recovery from laparoscopic colorectal surgery and proved to be safe for patients. Extensive surgeries, occurrence of complications, and the need for ostomy were variables associated with poor program adhesion.

Trial registration Trial Registry: RBR2b4fyr—Date of registration: 03 October 2017.

Impact of Facilitation of Early Mobilization on Postoperative Pulmonary Outcomes After Colorectal Surgery: A Randomized Controlled Trial

OBJECTIVE

To estimate the extent to which staff-directed facilitation of early mobilization impacts recovery of pulmonary function and 30-day postoperative pulmonary complications (PPCs) after colorectal surgery.

SUMMARY BACKGROUND DATA

Early mobilization after surgery is believed to improve pulmonary function and prevent PPCs; however, adherence is low. The value of allocating resources (eg, staff time) to increase early mobilization is unknown.

METHODS

This study involved the analysis of a priori secondary outcomes of a pragmatic, observer-blind, randomized trial. Consecutive patients undergoing colorectal surgery were randomized 1:1 to usual care (preoperative education) or facilitated mobilization (staff dedicated to assist transfers and walking during hospital stay). Forced vital capacity, forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1), and peak cough flow were measured preoperatively and at 1, 2, 3 days and 4 weeks after surgery. PPCs were defined according to the European Perioperative Clinical Outcome Taskforce.

RESULTS

Ninety-nine patients (57% male, 80% laparoscopic, median age 63, and predicted FEV1 97%) were included in the intention-to-treat analysis (usual care 49, facilitated mobilization 50). There was no between-group difference in recovery of forced vital capacity [adjusted difference in slopes 0.002 L/d (95% CI -0.01 to 0.01)], FEV1 [-0.002 L/d (-0.01 to 0.01)] or peak cough flow [-0.002 L/min/d (-0.02 to 0.02)]. Thirty-day PPCs were also not different between groups [adjusted odds ratio 0.67 (0.23-1.99)].

CONCLUSIONS

In this randomized controlled trial, staff-directed facilitation of early mobilization did not improve postoperative pulmonary function or reduce PPCs within an enhanced recovery pathway for colorectal surgery.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02131844.

Current state of benefits of Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) in spinal surgeries: A systematic review of the literature

INTRODUCTION

Recent years have been characterized by a great technological and clinical development in spine surgery. In particular, enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) programs, started to gain interest also in this surgical field. Here we tried to analyse the current state of art of ERAS technique in spine surgery.

MATERIAL AND METHOD

A systematic review of the literature has been performed in order to find all the possible inclusions. Using the PRISMA guidelines, a search of the PubMed/Medline, Web of Science, Cochrane Reviews, Embase, Medline databases was conducted to identify all full-text articles in the English-language literature describing the use of ERAS programs or techniques for spine surgery in adult patients.

RESULTS

Out of the 827 studies found, only 21 met the inclusion criteria has been retained to be included in the present study. The most frequently benefits of ERAS protocols were shorter hospitalisations (n=15), and decreased complication rates (n=8) lower postoperative pain scores (n=4). These benefits were seen in the 3 main categories considered: lumbar spine surgeries, surgeries for correction of scoliosis or deformity, and surgeries of the cervical spine.

CONCLUSION

There are an arising amount of data showing that the use of ERAS programs could be helpful in reducing the days of hospitalizations and the number of complications for certain spinal procedures and in a highly selected group of patients. Despite the large interest on the topic; there is an important lack of high level of scientific evidences. Because of that, there is the need to encourage the design and creation of new randomized clinical trials that will validate the present findings.

Effects of comprehensive geriatric care models on postoperative outcomes in geriatric surgical patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

The elderly population is highly susceptible to develop post-operative complications after major surgeries. It is not clear whether the comprehensive geriatric care models are effective in reducing adverse events. The objective of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to determine whether the comprehensive geriatric care models improved clinical outcomes, particularly in decreasing the prevalence of delirium and length of hospital stay (LOS) in elderly surgical patients.

Method

We searched Medline, PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Emcare Nursing, Web of Science, Scopus, CINAHL, ClinicalTrials. Gov, and ICTRP between 2009 to January 23, 2020. We included studies on geriatric care models in elderly patients (≥60 years) undergoing elective, non-cardiac high-risk surgery. The outcomes were the prevalence of delirium, LOS, rates of 30-days readmission, and 30-days mortality. We used the Cochrane Review Manager Version 5.3. to estimate the pooled Odds Ratio (OR) and Mean Difference (MD) using random effect model analysis.

Results

Eleven studies were included with 2672 patients [Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs): 4; Non-Randomized Controlled Trials (Non-RCTs): 7]. Data pooled from six studies showed that there was no significant difference in the prevalence of delirium between the intervention and control groups: 13.8% vs 15.9% (OR: 0.76; 95% CI: 0.30–1.96; p = 0.57). Similarly, there were no significant differences in the LOS (MD: -0.55; 95% CI: − 2.28, 1.18; p = 0.53), 30-day readmission (12.1% vs. 14.3%; OR: 1.09; 95% CI: 0.67–1.77; p = 0.73), and 30-day mortality (3.2% vs. 2.1%; OR: 1.34; 95% CI: 0.66–2.69; p = 0.42). The quality of evidence was very low.

Conclusions

The geriatric care models involved pre-operative comprehensive geriatric assessment, and intervention tools to address cognition, frailty, and functional status. In non-cardiac high-risk surgeries, these care models did not show any significant difference in the prevalence of delirium, LOS, 30-days readmission rates, and 30-day mortality in geriatric patients. Further RCTs are warranted to evaluate these models on the postoperative outcomes.

Trial registration

PROSPERO registration number - CRD42020181779.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12871-021-01337-2.

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.

Comparison of outcome after right colectomy with an enhanced recovery programme in patients with inflammatory bowel disease and patients operated on for other conditions: a monocentric retrospective study

PURPOSE

Enhanced recovery programmes (ERPs) after surgery reduce postoperative complications and hospital stay. Patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) often present risk factors for postoperative complications. This accounts for reluctance to include them in ERPs. We compared outcome after right colectomy with an ERP in IBD and non-IBD patients.

METHODS

In our GRACE colorectal surgery database comprising 508 patients, we analysed patients scheduled for right colectomy (n = 160). Adherence to the protocol, postoperative complications and length of hospital stay of IBD patients (n = 45) were compared with those of non-IBD patients (n = 115). Data (mean ± SD, median [IQR], count (%)) were compared by Student's t, Mann-Whitney U and chi-square tests when appropriate; p < 0.05 taken as statistically significant.

RESULTS

IBD patients were significantly younger (38.9 ± 13.8 vs. 58.9 ± 18.5 years, p < 0.001) and had lower BMI (23.0 ± 5.0 vs. 25.1 ± 5.0 kg m^-2, p < 0.01). Adherence to ERP was similar in the two groups. Resumption of eating on the day of the operation was less well tolerated (73.3% vs. 85.2%, p < 0.05) and postoperative pain (p < 0.001) was greater in IBD patients. The incidence of postoperative complications (13.3% vs. 17.3%) and the length of hospital stay (3 [3-4.5] vs. 3 [2-5] days) were comparable in IBD and non-IBD patients, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The management of IBD patients in an ERP is not only feasible but also indicated. These patients benefit as much from ERP as non-IBD patients.

Enhanced Recovery Pathway Benefits Patients Undergoing Nonelective Colorectal Surgery

OBJECTIVE

The aim of our study was to determine if an enhanced recovery pathway (ERP) can successfully be applied in nonelective colorectal surgery.

BACKGROUND

ERPs have been shown to reduce hospital length of stay (LOS), complications, and costs after elective colorectal surgery. Yet, little data exist regarding the benefits of ERPs in patients undergoing nonelective colorectal surgery. We hypothesized that ERP implementation in a nonelective colorectal surgery population is associated with decreased postoperative LOS.

METHODS

A prospectively-maintained database was used to identify consecutive patients undergoing colorectal surgery after emergency room (ER) or hospital transfer admissions over a period from 2 years before until 1 year after implementation of a comprehensive ERP. The primary endpoint was LOS. Secondary endpoints included total LOS [TLOS = postoperative LOS + LOS of readmission(s)], readmission rates, complication rates, 30-day mortality, and hospital costs. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to assess the relationship between ERP implementation and LOS.

RESULTS

We identified 269 pre-ERP and 135 ERP patients fulfilling the inclusion criteria. Admit source (ER 43.4% vs transfers 56.7%), Charlson comorbidity index, American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) status, diagnosis (inflammatory bowel disease 45.8%, malignancy 19.6%, benign intestinal obstructions 10.4%, diverticulitis 9.4%, others 10.4%), and blood loss were comparable (P > 0.05) between the cohorts. Pre-ERP patients had a higher number of previous abdominal surgeries, whereas post-ERP patients had more laparoscopy and more compliance with ERP elements. ERP patients had a shorter postoperative LOS [6 (4, 10) vs 7 (5, 12) days; P = 0.0007]. Hospital costs were 13.4% lower (P = 0.004). Postoperative 30-day morbidity, mortality, and readmissions were comparable, although reoperation rate was higher in the ERP group. On multivariate analysis, ERP implementation and laparoscopy were the only modifiable variables independently associated with shorter LOS, whereas longer operative times and higher ASA classification were associated with longer LOS.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients undergoing nonelective colorectal surgery after ER or hospital transfer admission benefit from the use of an ERP, demonstrating decreased LOS and costs without an increase in complications.

Impact of Oral Immunonutrition on Postoperative Morbidity in Digestive Oncologic Surgery: A Nation-wide Cohort Study

OBJECTIVE

The objective of the present study was to assess the effect of preoperative immunonutrition on a nationwide scale.

BACKGROUND

According to international guidelines, immunonutrition should be prescribed before major oncologic digestive surgery to decrease postoperative morbidity. Nevertheless, this practice remains controversial.

METHODS

We used a prospective national health database named "Echantillon généraliste des Bénéficiaires." Patients were selected with ICD10 codes of cancer and digestive surgery procedures from 2012 to 2016. Two groups were identified: with reimbursement of immunonutrition 45 days before surgery (IN-group) or not (no-IN-group). Primary outcome was 90-day severe morbidity. Secondary outcomes were postoperative length of stay (LOS) and overall survival. Logistic regression and survival analysis adjusted with IPW method were performed.

RESULTS

One thousand seven hundred seventy-one patients were included. The proportion of different cancers was as follows: 72% patients were included in the colorectal group, 14% in the hepato-pancreato-biliary group, and 12% in the upper gastrointestinal group. Patients from the IN-group (n = 606, 34%) were younger (67.1 ± 11.8 vs 69.2 ± 12.2 years, P < 0.001), with increased use of other oral nutritional supplements (49.5% vs 31.8%, P < 0.001) and had more digestive anastomoses (89.4% vs 83.0%, P < 0.001). There was no significant difference between the 2 groups for 90-day severe morbidity [odds ratio (OR): 0.91, 95% confidence interval (95% CI): 0.73-1.14] or in survival (hazard ratio: 0.89, 95% CI: 0.73-1.08). LOS were shorter in the IN-group [-1.26 days, 95% CI: -2.40 to -0.10)].

CONCLUSION

The preoperative use of immunonutrition before major oncologic digestive surgery was not associated with any significant difference in morbidity or mortality. However, the LOS was significantly shorter in the IN-group.

Implementation of ERAS (Enhanced Recovery After Surgery) protocols for radical cystectomy patients: The pathway to standardization. A systematic review

CONTEXT

The development of ERAS (Enhanced Recovery After Surgery) protocols in patients undergoing major surgery has brought perioperative benefits in several disciplines. Its main application in urology is focused on patients undergoing radical cystectomy.

OBJECTIVE

Systematic review of the available literature on ERAS protocols applied to patients undergoing radical cystectomy in terms of perioperative outcomes as well in the analysis of their implementation.

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

A bibliographic search was conducted in the electronic databases PubMed, Embase, Cochrane and Scopus, using the terms «Cystectomy», «Enhanced Recovery After Surgery» and «Fast-Track». Randomized and non-randomized studies that compared the implementation of an ERAS protocol versus a traditional protocol in patients undergoing radical cystectomy were selected.

EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS

869 articles were identified; 25 were selected for final analysis: 22 non-randomized and 3 randomized studies. No differences were observed in terms of demographic characteristics between studies. Statistically significant differences were identified in favor of the ERAS protocol: length of hospital stay, major complication rate, time to first ambulation and return of bowel function. In the analysis of protocols, a high variability was detected in the number of items and in the implementation method.

CONCLUSIONS

The multidisciplinary nature and the number of items of the ERAS protocols imply a high heterogeneity in their implementation. Further randomized studies, standardized reporting and analyzing results, as well as a systematic analysis of subsequent adherence are required to increase comparability between groups.

The Impact of Transversus Abdominis Plane Block Within an Enhanced Recovery After Surgery Protocol on Length of Stay

BACKGROUND

Multimodal, narcotic-sparing analgesic strategies are an important part of enhanced recovery after surgery protocols. Within such protocols, regional anesthetics have proven to be superior to narcotics.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to evaluate the impact of the transversus abdominis plane block within an enhanced recovery after surgery protocol on length of stay.

DESIGN

A retrospective analysis of patients who underwent colorectal surgery in 2015 to 2016 was completed. The primary end points for this analysis were total length of stay and total narcotics consumed during hospitalization. Length of stay and total narcotic use were compared for patients who received a transversus abdominis plane block versus those that did not.

DATA SOURCE

The data were obtained from the data warehouse of a university teaching hospital.

SETTINGS

This study took place at a university teaching hospital.

PATIENTS

The patients were 18 years or older.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The primary outcomes measured were length of stay and the total narcotics used.

RESULTS

A total of 347 patients underwent colorectal procedures under the enhanced recovery protocol. Among these, 186 (54%) received a transversus abdominis plane block. Overall, the mean length of stay was 5.8 days (SD ±5.6), and median length of stay was 4 days. These values compare to a mean length of stay of 9.6 days and median length of stay of 7 days before implementing the enhanced recovery protocol. Patients who received a transversus abdominis plane block had a mean length of stay of 5.1 days compared to 6.6 days for those who did not receive one (p < 0.01). Patients who received a transversus abdominis plane block consumed 736.5 morphine milligram equivalents of opioids compared to 1150.3 morphine milligram equivalents of opioid consumed by those without a transversus abdominis plane block (p < 0.05), a 36% decrease in opioid use. When comparing patients who had a mean length of stay of 4 days with those whose length of stay was >4 days, there was an 80% decrease in opioid use. The readmission rate was 7.8%.

LIMITATIONS

The lack of randomization of patients was a limitation of this study.

CONCLUSION

The use of transversus abdominis plane block in the setting of a well-structured enhanced recovery protocol was associated with a statistically significant decrease in length of stay by 1.5 days and a 36% decrease in narcotic use. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/B432.

IMPACTO DE LA ANESTESIA DEL PLANO MUSCULAR DE LOS TRANSVERSOS ABDOMINALES EN LA ESTADA DENTRO UN PROTOCOLO ERAS

ANTECEDENTES:La estrategia analgésica multimodal que consume poco medicamento de tipo narcótico es parte importante en los protocolos de recuperación mejorada postoperatoria. Dentro de dichos protocolos, los anestésicos regionales han demostrado ser superiores a la administración de medicamentos narcóticos.OBJETIVO:Estudiar el impacto del bloqueo del plano muscular de los transversos del abdomen sobre la duración de la estadía dentro de un protocolo de recuperación mejorada postoperatoria.DISEÑO:Se realizó un análisis retrospectivo de los pacientes que se sometieron a cirugía colorrectal entre 2015-2016. Los criterios principales de valoración en el presente análisis fueron la duración total de la estadía y el total de medicamentos narcóticos consumidos durante la hospitalización. Se comparó la duración de la estadía y el uso total de narcóticos en los pacientes que recibieron un bloqueo anestésico del plano muscular de los transversos del abdomen con los que no lo recibieron.FUENTE DE DATOS:Banco de datos de un hospital universitario docente.AMBIENTE:Hospital Universitario Docente.PACIENTES:Adultos desde los 18 años o mayores.PRINCIPALES MEDIDAS DE RESULTADO:Duración de la estadía, cantidad total de medicamentos narcóticos administrados.RESULTADOS:Un total de 347 pacientes se sometieron a procedimientos colorrectales bajo el protocolo ERAS. Entre ellos, 186 (54%) recibieron un bloqueo del plano muscular de los transversos del abdomen. En la globalidad, la duración media de la estadía fué de 5,8 días (DE ± 5,6) y la duración media de la estadía fué de 4 días. Estos resultados fueron comparados con la estadía media de 9,6 días y una estadía media de 7 días antes de implementar el protocolo ERAS. Los pacientes que recibieron un bloqueo del plano muscular de los transversos del abdomen tuvieron una estadía media de 5,1 días en comparación con los 6,6 días de los que no recibieron el mencionado bloqueo (p <0,01). Los pacientes que recibieron el bloqueo del plano muscular consumieron 736,5 miligramos de morfina o su equivalente en opioides, comparados con los 1150,3 de aquellos sin bloqueo del plano muscular (p <0,05) lo que significó una disminución del 36% en la administración de opioides. Al comparar los pacientes que tuvieron una estadía media de 4 días con aquellos cuya estadía fue mayor a 4 días, se evidenció una disminución en el 80% de la administración de opioides. La tasa de reingreso fue del 7,8%.LIMITACIONES:Estudio sin sin aleatorización de pacientes.CONCLUSIÓN:El bloqueo anestésico del plano muscular de los transversos del abdomen dentro un contexto protocolar tipo ERAS o de recuperación mejorada bien estructurada, se asoció con la disminución estadísticamente significativa de la duración de la estadía en 1,5 días y una disminución del 36% en la administración de medicamentos narcóticos. Consulte Video Resumen en http://links.lww.com/DCR/B432.

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.

Relationship Between Mobile Digital Sensor Monitoring and Perioperative Outcomes: Systematic Review

Background

Monitoring surgical recovery has traditionally been confined to metrics measurable within the hospital and clinic setting. However, commercially available mobile sensors are now capable of extending measurements into a patient’s home. As these sensors were developed for nonmedical applications, their clinical role has yet to be established. The aim of this systematic review is to evaluate the relationship between data generated by mobile sensors and postoperative outcomes.

Objective

The objective of this study is to describe the current use of mobile sensors in the perioperative setting and the correlation between their data and clinical outcomes.

Methods

A systematic search of EMBASE, MEDLINE, and Cochrane Library from inception until April 2019 was performed to identify studies of surgical patients monitored with mobile sensors. Sensors were considered if they collected patient metrics such as step count, temperature, or heart rate. Studies were included if patients underwent major surgery (≥1 inpatient postoperative day), patients were monitored using mobile sensors in the perioperative period, and the study reported postoperative outcomes (ie, complications and hospital readmission). For studies including step count, a pooled analysis of the step count per postoperative day was calculated for the complication and noncomplication cohorts using mean and a random-effects linear model. The Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation tool was used to assess study quality.

Results

From 2209 abstracts, we identified 11 studies for review. Reviewed studies consisted of either prospective observational cohorts (n=10) or randomized controlled trials (n=1). Activity monitors were the most widely used sensors (n=10), with an additional study measuring temperature, respiratory rate, and heart rate (n=1). Low step count was associated with worse postoperative outcomes. A median step count of around 1000 steps per postoperative day was associated with adverse surgical outcomes. Within the studies, there was heterogeneity between the type of surgery and type of reported postoperative outcome.

Conclusions

Despite significant heterogeneity in the type of surgery and sensors, low step count was associated with worse postoperative outcomes across surgical specialties. Further studies and standardization are needed to assess the role of mobile sensors in postoperative care, but a threshold of approximately 1000 steps per postoperative day warrants further investigation.

Enhanced recovery after surgery for laparoscopic gastrectomy in gastric cancer: A prospective study

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic distal gastrectomy (LDG) has been highlighted for its safety and better short-term clinical outcomes in treating gastric cancer. However, only a slight reduction of the post-operative hospital stay was observed in gastric cancer patients undergoing LDG with conventional perioperative management, compared to patients undergoing open surgery. Thus, an enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) program for LDG is needed to further reduce the post-operative hospital stays. This prospective, open-label, single-arm cohort study aimed to assess the safety and efficacy of the ERAS program for gastric cancer patients undergoing LDG.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

All patients with gastric cancer indicated for LDG were consecutively enrolled from December 2016 to January 2018. The ERAS program included short fasting time, effective perioperative pain management, early, goal-oriented ambulation, and oral feeding. The safety assessment was the incidence of post-operative complications, mortality, and readmission in 30 days. The primary efficacy assessment was recovery time defined by post-operative hospital stays and rehabilitative rate on post-operative day 4.

RESULTS

Ninety-eight of 114 patients were finally enrolled. The incidence of post-operative complication, mortality, and readmission in 30 days was 20. 4%, 0%, 7.1%, respectively. The Clavien-Dindo grade III complication rate was 6.1%, while the pulmonary complication rate was 1% only. The median post-operative stay was 6 days (5.0-7.0 days), and the rehabilitative rate on post-operative day 4 was 78%.

CONCLUSIONS

The ERAS program might be optimal perioperative management for gastric cancer patients after LDG without compromising safety.

TRIAL NUMBER

NCT03016026.

Implementing ERAS: how we achieved success within an anesthesia department

Background

The Massachusetts General Hospital is a large, quaternary care institution with 58 operating rooms, 164 anesthesiologists, 76 certified nurse anesthetists (CRNAs), an anesthesiology residency program that admits 25 residents annually, and 35 surgeons who perform laparoscopic, vaginal, and open hysterectomies. In March of 2018, our institution launched an Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) pathway for patients undergoing hysterectomy. To implement the anesthesia bundle of this pathway, an intensive 14-month educational endeavor was created and put into effect. There were no subsequent additional educational interventions.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed records of 2570 patients who underwent hysterectomy between October 2016 and March 2020 to determine adherence to the anesthesia bundle of the ERAS Hysterectomy pathway. RESULTS: Increased adherence to the four elements of the anesthesia bundle (p < 0.001) was achieved during the intervention period. Compliance with the pathway was sustained in the post-intervention period despite no additional actions.

Conclusions

Implementing the anesthesia bundle of an ERAS pathway in a large anesthesia group with diverse providers successfully occurred using implementation science-based approach of intense interventions, and these results were maintained after the intervention ceased.

Predictors of Acute Postsurgical Pain following Gastrointestinal Surgery: A Prospective Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

Several predictors have been shown to be independently associated with chronic postsurgical pain for gastrointestinal surgery, but few studies have investigated the factors associated with acute postsurgical pain (APSP). The aim of this study was to identify the predictors of APSP intensity and severity through investigating demographic, psychological, and clinical variables.

METHODS

We performed a prospective cohort study of 282 patients undergoing gastrointestinal surgery to analyze the predictors of APSP. Psychological questionnaires were assessed 1 day before surgery. Meanwhile, demographic characteristics and perioperative data were collected. The primary outcomes are APSP intensity assessed by numeric rating scale (NRS) and APSP severity defined as a clinically meaningful pain when NRS ≥4. The predictors for APSP intensity and severity were determined using multiple linear regression and multivariate logistic regression, respectively.

RESULTS

112 patients (39.7%) reported a clinically meaningful pain during the first 24 hours postoperatively. Oral morphine milligram equivalent (MME) consumption (β 0.05, 95% CI 0.03-0.07, p < 0.001), preoperative anxiety (β 0.12, 95% CI 0.08-0.15, p < 0.001), and expected postsurgical pain intensity (β 0.12, 95% CI 0.06-0.18, p < 0.001) were positively associated with APSP intensity. Furthermore, MME consumption (OR 1.15, 95% CI 1.10-1.21, p < 0.001), preoperative anxiety (OR 1.33, 95% CI 1.21-1.46, p < 0.001), and expected postsurgical pain intensity (OR 1.36, 95% CI 1.17-1.57, p < 0.001) were independently associated with APSP severity.

CONCLUSION

These results suggested that the predictors for APSP intensity following gastrointestinal surgery included analgesic consumption, preoperative anxiety, and expected postsurgical pain, which were also the risk factors for APSP severity.

[Enhanced recovery after surgery-Does the ERAS concept keep its promises]

INTRODUCTION

Perioperative enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) concepts or fast-track are supposed to accelerate recovery after surgery, reduce postoperative complications and shorten the hospital stay when compared to traditional perioperative treatment.

METHODS

Electronic search of the PubMed database to identify systematic reviews with meta-analysis (SR) comparing ERAS and traditional treatment.

RESULTS

The presented SR investigated 70 randomized controlled studies (RCT) with 12,986 patients and 93 non-RCT (24,335 patients) concerning abdominal, thoracic and vascular as well as orthopedic surgery. The complication rates were decreased under ERAS following colorectal esophageal, liver and pulmonary resections as well as after implantation of hip endoprostheses. Pulmonary complications were reduced after ERAS esophageal, gastric and pulmonary resections. The first bowel movements occurred earlier after ERAS colorectal resections and delayed gastric emptying was less often observed after ERAS pancreatic resection. Following ERAS fast-track esophageal resection, anastomotic leakage was diagnosed less often as well as surgical complications after ERAS pulmonary resection. The ERAS in all studies concerning orthopedic surgery and trials investigating implantation of a hip endoprosthesis or knee endoprosthesis reduced the risk for postoperative blood transfusions. Regardless of the type of surgery, ERAS shortened hospital stay without increasing readmissions.

CONCLUSION

Numerous clinical trials have confirmed that ERAS reduces postoperative morbidity, shortens hospital stay and accelerates recovery without increasing readmission rates following most surgical operations.

ACERTO PROJECT: IMPACT ON ASSISTANCE OF A PUBLIC EMERGENCY HOSPITAL

Background:

In Brazil, the goal-based approach was named Project ACERTO and has obtained good results when applied in elective surgeries with shorter hospitalization time, earlier return to activities without increased morbidity and mortality.

Aim:

To analyze the impact of ACERTO on emergency surgery care.

Methods:

An intervention study was performed at a trauma hospital. Were compared 452 patients undergoing emergency surgery and followed up by the general surgery service from October to December 2018 (pre-ACERTO, n=243) and from March to June 2019 (post-ACERTO, n=209). Dietary reintroduction, volume of infused postoperative venous hydration, duration of use of catheters, probes and drains, postoperative analgesia, prevention of postoperative vomiting, early mobilization and physiotherapy were evaluated.

Results:

After the ACERTO implantation there was earlier reintroduction of the diet, the earlier optimal caloric intake, earlier venous hydration withdrawal, higher postoperative analgesia prescription, postoperative vomiting prophylaxis and higher physiotherapy and mobilization prescription were achieved early in all (p<0.01); in the multivariate analysis there was no change in the complication rates observed before and after ACERTO (10.7% vs. 7.7% (p=0.268) and there was a decrease in the length of hospitalization after ACERTO (8,5 vs. 6,1 dias (p=0.008).

Conclusion:

The implementation of the ACERTO project decreased the length of hospital stay, improved medical care provided without increasing the rates of complications evaluated.

[Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS®) after radical cystectomy-current data]

BACKGROUND

Radical cystectomy is associated with considerable morbidity and mortality. Based on the solid evidence in colorectal surgery, fast-track/ERAS® (Enhanced Recovery After Surgery) protocols have been developed to improve the perioperative management of patients undergoing radical cystectomy.

OBJECTIVES

To review the literature and guidelines and evaluate the evidence regarding the different components of ERAS® protocols.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Systemic literature search and evaluation of relevant guidelines.

RESULTS

The majority of ERAS® recommendations for radical cystectomy are based on extrapolations of abdominal surgery studies. Four randomized, controlled trials and one ERAS® guideline were published for radical cystectomy. ERAS® seems to shorten length of stay without increasing the complication rate. Key elements are no bowel preparation, no nasogastric tube, optimized fluid substitution, multimodal pain management, early mobilization, and oral diet.

CONCLUSIONS

Implementation of ERAS® requires multidisciplinary collaboration. Individualization of an ERAS® program, identification of the most important components and adaption to the specific needs of radical cystectomy patients are future goals.

Feasibility, Safety and Efficacy of Enhanced Recovery After Living Donor Nephrectomy: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

This meta-analysis aims to compare enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) vs. standard perioperative practice in the management of living kidney donors. Primary endpoints included mortality, complications, length of stay (LOS) and quality of life after living donor nephrectomy. Medline, Embase, Scopus, Cochrane and Web of Science databases were searched. In total, 3029 records were identified. We then screened 114 full texts. Finally, 11 studies were included in the systematic review corresponding to 813 living donors. Of these, four randomized controlled trials were included in the meta-analysis. ERAS resulted in shorter LOS (95CI: -1.144, -0.078, I2 = 87.622%) and lower incidence of post-operative complications (95CI: 0.158, 0.582, I2 = 0%). This referred to Clavien-Dindo I-II complications (95CI: 0.158, 0.582, I2 = 0%). There was no difference in Clavien-Dindo III-V complications (95CI: 0.061,16.173, I2 = 0%). ERAS donors consumed decreased amounts of narcotics during their hospital stay (95CI: -27.694, -8.605, I2 = 0%). They had less bodily pain (95CI:6.735, 17.07, I2 = 0%) and improved emotional status (95CI: 6.593,13.319, I2 = 75.682%) one month postoperatively. ERAS protocols incorporating multimodal pain control interventions resulted in a mean reduction of 1 day in donors' LOS (95CI: -1.374, -0.763, I2 = 0%). Our results suggest that ERAS protocols result in reduced perioperative morbidity, shorter length of hospital stay and improved quality of life after living donor nephrectomy.

The Effect of an Enhanced Recovery Program on Elective Right Hemicolectomies for Crohn's Disease vs. Colon Cancer: A Retrospective Cohort Analysis

BACKGROUND

Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocols are widely employed in colorectal surgery, successful in reducing postoperative morbidities and hospital length of stay (LOS). However, ERAS effects on the inflammatory bowel disease population remain unclear. This study examines the postoperative course of both Crohn's disease (CD) and colon cancer (CC) patients after elective right hemicolectomies and compares the effectiveness of ERAS protocol.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis was performed on patients with CD and CC undergoing elective right hemicolectomies and ileocecectomies from January 2014 through June 2016 (pre-ERAS) and January 2017 through April 2019 (post-ERAS) from a single tertiary care center. Patient demographics and perioperative variables were examined, including prolonged postoperative ileus (PPOI), hospital LOS, and 30-day readmission.

RESULTS

98 CC patients and 91 CD patients met the inclusion criteria. The pre-ERAS CC and post-ERAS CC cohorts were significantly different: post-ERAS had fewer patients with congestive heart failure and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and had higher albumin levels. The pre-ERAS CC cohort had significantly longer operative durations and higher rates of concomitant procedures than the post-ERAS CC cohort. Both patients with CC and CD had a reduction in LOS with implementation of ERAS, decreasing by 2.24 days (P = .002) and 1.21 days (P = .038), respectively. There was a reduction in rates of organ space infections with CD (pre .132, post .00, P = .007). There was a trend towards an increased rate of PPOI with CD (Pre .079, Post .226, P = .062).

DISCUSSION

The ERAS protocol significantly reduced LOS for both groups, without increasing 30-day readmission rates or other morbidities.

Early Prediction of Length of Stay After Pancreaticoduodenectomy

BACKGROUND

Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) is an evidence-based clinical pathway designed to standardize and optimize care. We studied the impact of ERAS and sought to identify the most important recommendations to predict shorter length of stay (LOS) after pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD).

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed all patients undergoing PD at our institution between January 2014 and June 2018. We compared clinicopathologic outcomes for patients before and after ERAS implementation. We defined "A-recommendations" as those that were graded "strong" and had "moderate" or "high" levels of evidence. We then compared outcomes of the ERAS group with adherence to "A-recommendations" and performed a subset analysis of "A-recommendations" over the first 72 h after surgery, which we termed "early factors".

RESULTS

A total of 191 patients underwent PD during the study period. We excluded 87 patients who had minimally invasive PD (22), vascular reconstruction (53), or both (12). Of the 104 patients studied, 56 (54%) were pre-ERAS and 48 (46%) were ERAS. There were no differences in comorbidities or demographics between these groups, and morbidity, mortality, and readmission rates were also similar (P > 0.6). Median LOS was 3.5 d shorter in the ERAS group (7 versus 10.5 d, P < 0.001). Adherence to "A-recommendations" within ERAS was associated with a decreased LOS (r = -0.52 P = 0.0001). Patients with >5 "early factors" had a median LOS of 6 d, whereas patients with <5 "early factors" had a median LOS of 9 d (P = 0.008).

CONCLUSIONS

ERAS is an effective protocol that standardizes care and reduces LOS after PD. Implementation of ERAS resulted in a 3.5-day reduction in our LOS with no change in morbidity, mortality, or readmissions. Adherence to ERAS protocol "A-recommendations" and ≥5 "early factors" may be predictive of shortened LOS.

Biological impact of an enhanced recovery after surgery programme in liver surgery

BACKGROUND

The clinical and economic impacts of enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) programmes have been demonstrated extensively. Whether ERAS protocols also have a biological effect remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the biological impact of an ERAS programme in patients undergoing liver surgery.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of patients undergoing liver surgery (2010-2018) was undertaken. Patients operated before and after ERAS implementation in 2013 were compared. Surrogate markers of surgical stress were monitored: white blood cell count (WBC), C-reactive protein (CRP) level, albumin concentration, and haematocrit. Their perioperative fluctuations were defined as Δvalues, calculated on postoperative day (POD) 0 for Δalbumin and Δhaematocrit and POD 2 for ΔWBC and ΔCRP.

RESULTS

A total of 541 patients were included, with 223 and 318 patients in non-ERAS and ERAS groups respectively. Groups were comparable, except for higher rates of laparoscopy (24.8 versus 11.2 per cent; P < 0.001) and major resection (47.5 versus 38.1 per cent; P = 0.035) in the ERAS group. Patients in the ERAS group showed attenuated ΔWBC (2.00 versus 2.75 g/l; P = 0.013), ΔCRP (60 versus 101 mg/l; P <0.001) and Δalbumin (12 versus 16 g/l; P < 0.001) compared with those in the no-ERAS group. Subgroup analysis of open resection showed similar results. Multivariable analysis identified ERAS as the only independent factor associated with high ΔWBC (odds ratio (OR) 0.65, 95 per cent c.i. 0.43 to 0.98; P = 0.038), ΔCRP (OR 0.41, 0.23 to 0.73; P = 0.003) and Δalbumin (OR 0.40, 95 per cent c.i. 0.22 to 0.72; P = 0.002).

CONCLUSION

Compared with conventional management, implementation of ERAS was associated with an attenuated stress response in patients undergoing liver surgery.