Enhanced recovery after surgery-Preoperative fasting and glucose loading-A review

Driving Forces for Outpatient Total Hip and Knee Arthroplasty with Enhanced Recovery After Surgery Protocols: A Narrative Review

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To explore the recent developments and trends in the anesthetic and surgical practices for total hip and total knee arthroplasty and discuss the implications for further outpatient total joint arthroplasty procedures.

RECENT FINDINGS

Between 2012 and 2017 there was an 18.9% increase in the annual primary total joint arthroplasty volume. Payments to physicians falling by 7.5% (14.9% when adjusted for inflations), whereas hospital reimbursements and charges increased by 0.3% and 18.6%, respectively. Total knee arthroplasty and total hip arthroplasty surgeries were removed from the Medicare Inpatient Only in January 2018 and January 2020, respectively leading to same-day TKA surgeries increases from 1.2% in January 2016 to 62.4% by December 2020 Same-day volumes for THA surgery increased from 2% in January 2016 to 54.5% by December 2020. Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocols have revolutionized modern anesthesia and surgery practices. Centers for Medicare Services officially removed total joint arthroplasty from the inpatient only services list, opening a new door for improved cost savings to patients and the healthcare system alike. In the post-COVID healthcare system numerous factors have pushed increasing numbers of total joint arthroplasties into the outpatient, ambulatory surgery center setting. Improved anesthesia and surgical practices in the preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative settings have revolutionized pain control, blood loss, and ambulatory status, rendering costly hospital stays obsolete in many cases. As the population ages and more total joint procedures are performed, the door is opening for more orthopedic procedures to exit the inpatient only setting in favor of the ambulatory setting.

Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) implementation in cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and hyperthermic IntraPEritoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC): Insights from Italian peritoneal surface malignancies expert centers

BACKGROUND

Cytoreductive surgery (CRS) combined with Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy (HIPEC) is a complex procedure that involves extensive peritoneal and visceral resections followed by intraperitoneal chemotherapy. The Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) program aims to achieve faster recovery by maintaining pre-operative organ function and reducing the stress response following surgery. A recent publication introduced dedicated ERAS guidelines for CRS and HIPEC with the aim of extending the benefits to patients with peritoneal surface malignancies.

METHODS

A survey was conducted among 21 Italian centers specializing in peritoneal surface malignancies (PSM) treatment to assess adherence to ERAS guidelines. The survey covered pre/intraoperative and postoperative ERAS items and explored attitudes towards ERAS implementation.

RESULTS

All centers completed the survey, demonstrating expertise in PSM treatment. However, less than 30 % of centers adopted ERAS protocols despite being aware of dedicated guidelines. Preoperative optimization was common, with variations in bowel preparation methods and fasting periods. Intraoperative normothermia control was consistent, but fluid management practices varied. Postoperative practices, including routine abdominal drain placement and NGT management, varied greatly among centers. The majority of respondents expressed an intention to implement ERAS, citing concerns about feasibility and organizational challenges.

CONCLUSIONS

The study concludes that Italian centers specialized in PSM treatment have limited adoption of ERAS protocols for CRS ± HIPEC, despite being aware of guidelines. The variability in practice highlights the need for standardized approaches and further evaluation of ERAS applicability in this complex surgical setting to optimize patient care.

Metabolic effects of an oral carbohydrate-whey protein supplement after fasting in volunteers: A randomized controlled crossover trial

OBJECTIVE

Oral supplements containing carbohydrates (CHOs) can be used to reduce preoperative fasting time. The aim of this study was to investigate the early metabolic and acute phase responses to a clear, oral supplement containing CHO and whey protein (WP) in young, healthy volunteers during a fasting-induced organic response.

METHODS

In this controlled crossover clinical trial, volunteers were randomized into groups after a 12-h fast: the CHO+WP group consumed 200 mL CHO enriched with WP (n = 30); the CHO group members consumed 200 mL water plus maltodextrin (n = 30), and the Fast group was fasted only (n = 30). Blood samples were collected after fasting and 3 h after ingestion of the supplement. The samples were analyzed for glucose, glycated hemoglobin, insulin, C-reactive protein, β-hydroxybutyrate, triacylglycerols, albumin, chlorine, and sodium. After 7 d, the groups were inverted, so all volunteers entered the three groups.

RESULTS

The nutritional intervention did not change the biochemical parameters related to the acute phase response or insulin resistance; however, there was a statistically significant reduction (P < 0.001) in serum β-hydroxybutyrate in the CHO+WP group (0.05 ± 0.08 mmol/L) compared with the other two groups (Fast group: 0.11 ± 0.08 mmol/L; CHO group: 0.09 ± 0.13 mmol/L).

CONCLUSIONS

After overnight fasting, the oral supplement containing CHO and WP decreased ketosis. These findings may help select the most efficient oral supplement to be given 2 to 3 h before elective surgeries.

Perioperative Nutritional Management in Enhanced Recovery after Bariatric Surgery

Obesity is a crucial health problem because it leads to several chronic diseases with an increased risk of mortality and it is very hard to reverse with conventional treatment including changes in lifestyle and pharmacotherapy. Bariatric surgery (BS), comprising a range of various surgical procedures that modify the digestive tract favouring weight loss, is considered the most effective medical intervention to counteract severe obesity, especially in the presence of metabolic comorbidities. The Enhanced Recovery After Bariatric Surgery (ERABS) protocols include a set of recommendations that can be applied before and after BS. The primary aim of ERABS protocols is to facilitate and expedite the recovery process while enhancing the overall effectiveness of bariatric procedures. ERABS protocols include indications about preoperative fasting as well as on how to feed the patient on the day of the intervention, and how to nourish and hydrate in the days after BS. This narrative review examines the application, the feasibility and the efficacy of ERABS protocols applied to the field of nutrition. We found that ERABS protocols, in particular not fasting the patient before the surgery, are often not correctly applied for reasons that are not evidence-based. Furthermore, we identified some gaps in the research about some practises that could be implemented in the presence of additional evidence.

Safety and effectiveness for oral intake of carbohydrate-rich drink at preoperative 2 hours before painless colonoscopy

The aim of this study was to evaluate the feasibility, safety, and optimal dose of oral intake of carbohydrate-rich drinks 2 hours before painless colonoscopy. All patients receiving painless colonoscopy were randomly divided into 3 groups: control group (no carbohydrate-rich drink, n = 33), low-dose group (5 mL/kg carbohydrate-rich drink, n = 30), and high-dose group (8 mL/kg carbohydrate-rich drink, n = 30). Use of vasoactive drugs, the visual analog scale including thirst and hunger, degree of satisfaction, the time required for Modified Post Anesthetic Discharge Scoring System scale, first urination time, electrolyte level (sodium, potassium, and calcium), and blood glucose level were also determined. A total of 93 patients were recruited in this study. No significant difference was observed in the cross-sectional area (CSA) of the gastric antrum area at T0 between low- and high-dose groups (P = .912). There was a significant difference in CSA of gastric antrum at 120 minutes after oral intake between the low- and high-dose groups (P = .015). No significant difference was observed in the CSA of gastric antrum at 0 minutes and 120 minutes in the low-dose group (P = .177). In the high-dose group, the CSA of gastric antrum significantly differed at 0 minutes and 120 minutes (P < .001). There was a significant difference in the visual analog scale scores of thirst and hunger at 4 and 5 hours after bowel preparation among 3 groups (P = .001, P = .029, P < .001, P = .001). The degree of satisfaction in low- and high-dose groups was significantly higher than that in the control group (both P < .001). In conclusion, it is feasible and safe to deliver an oral intake of 5 mL/kg carbohydrate-rich drink 2 hours before painless colonoscopy. The comfort level and degree of satisfaction of patients can be further improved.

Prospective audit on fasting status of elective ambulatory surgery patients, correlated to gastric ultrasound

INTRODUCTION

Recent guidelines advocate a preoperative fasting interval of 6 h for solid food, 4 h for breast milk and 2 h for clear fluids. Long nil per mouth intervals give rise to complications and discomfort in the perioperative period. Gastric ultrasound is easily accessible and generates reliable information about gastric content.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

One hundred patients were offered a questionnaire regarding preoperative fasting. Important outcome measures were hour of last meal, last clear fluids intake, the source of preoperative information. Gastric ultrasound was performed in prone position and lateral decubitus.

RESULTS

The mean duration of fasting for solid food was 13h29 and 9h51 for clear fluids. 48% of patients were well aware of the correct fasting guidelines. The most frequent source of information was the preoperative phone call. Gastric ultrasound only found insignificant amounts of gastric content.

DISCUSSION

Too few patients are aware of the correct guidelines or fear complications and therefore adhere to the nil per mouth from midnight as most conservative measure. A phone call informing patients about the hour of surgery and allowing clear fluid intake until 2 h before surgery, is still not convincing enough. Some health care providers advise their patients the nil per mouth from midnight rule, due to risk of interfering with the operating room schedule.

CONCLUSION

It is still difficult to implement liberal intake of clear fluids according to current guidelines. Ambulatory surgery patients have long fasting intervals with decrease of subjective well-being and increased incidence of hunger and thirst.

Effect of Preoperative Oral Saline Administration on Postoperative Delirium in Older Persons: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Objective

Postoperative delirium (POD) seriously affects recovery of older persons, increasing their mortality rate after surgery. We aimed to evaluate preoperative oral saline administration on postoperative delirium in older persons undergoing spinal decompression.

Design

A randomised controlled trial in a large tertiary hospital.

Setting and Participants

A total of 76 older persons (≧65 years old) undergoing spinal surgery from May 2020 to January 2021.

Methods

Older persons (65–83 years old) who underwent elective spinal canal decompression were randomly grouped into either the control group (n = 38) or the intervention group (n = 38). The control group was forbidden from drinking 8 hours prior to the operation while the intervention group was administered 5 mL·kg⁻¹ of normal saline 2 hours before anesthesia. Hemodynamic indicators, diagnostic biomarkers, preoperative mini-mental status scores, and intraoperative fluid dynamics were recorded at baseline and at various postoperative timepoints. Subjects were then scored for POD and postoperative pain.

Results

S100β protein was lowered in S₁ (F_S1 = 12.289, P <0.001) and S₂ (F_S2 = 12.440, P <0.001) in the intervention group while mean arterial blood pressure (F_T1= 42.997, P<0.001) and heart rate (F_T1= 8.974, P=0.004) were increased. The Ln c-reactive protein of the intervention group was lowered 1 day postoperatively (F_S2 = 6.305, P = 0.014). The incidence of postoperative delirium in the control group was higher than in the intervention group (27.8% vs 8.3%, χ² = 4.547, P = 0.033).

Conclusion

Preoperative oral saline can reduce the incidence of postoperative delirium in older persons by minimizing perioperative hemodynamic fluctuations and central nervous system damage.

The outcome of enhanced recovery after surgery vs. a traditional pathway in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis surgery: A retrospective comparative study

Objectives

Methods

Results

Conclusions

Evaluation of perioperative management of advanced ovarian (tubal/peritoneal) cancer patients: a survey from MITO-MaNGO Groups

OBJECTIVE

The European Society of Gynaecological Oncology (ESGO)-quality indicators (QIs) for advanced ovarian cancer (AOC) have been assessed only by few Italian centers, and data are not available on the proportion of centers reaching the score considered for a satisfactory surgical management. There is great consensus that the Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) approach is beneficial, but there is paucity of data concerning its application in AOC. This survey was aimed at gathering detailed information on perioperative management of AOC patients within MITO-MaNGO Groups.

METHODS

A 66-item questionnaire, covering ESGO-QIs for AOC and ERAS items, was sent to MITO/MaNGO centers reporting to operate >20 AOC/year.

RESULTS

Thirty/34 questionnaires were analyzed. The median ESGO-QIs score was 31.5, with 50% of centers resulting with a score ≥32 which provides satisfactory surgical management. The rates of concordance with ERAS guidelines were 46.6%, 74.1%, and 60.7%, respectively, for pre-operative, intra-operative, and post-operative items. The proportion of overall agreement was 61.3%, and with strong recommendations was 63.1%. Pre-operative diet, fasting/bowel preparation, correction of anaemia, post-operative feeding and early mobilization were the most controversial. A significant positive correlation was found between ESGO-QIs score and adherence to ERAS recommendations.

CONCLUSION

This survey reveals a satisfactory surgical management in only half of the centers, and an at least sufficient adherence to ERAS recommendations. Higher the ESGO-QIs score stronger the adherence to ERAS recommendations, underlining the correlations between case volume, appropriate peri-operative management and quality of surgery. The present study is a first step to build a structured platform for harmonization within MITO-MaNGO networks.

Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) for Cranial Tumor Resection: A Review

Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocols describe a standardized method of preoperative, perioperative, and postoperative care to enhance outcomes and minimize complication risks surrounding elective surgical intervention. A growing body of evidence is being generated as we learn to apply principles of ERAS standardization to neurosurgical patients. First applied in spinal surgery, ERAS protocols have been extended to cranial neuro-oncological procedures. This review synthesizes recent findings to generate evidence-based guidelines to manage neurosurgical oncology patients with standardized systems and assess ability of these systems to coordinate multidisciplinary, patient-centric care efforts. Furthermore, we highlight the potential utility of multimedia, app-based communication platforms to facilitate patient education, autonomy, and team communication within each of the three settings.

Preoperative carbohydrate loading before elective abdominal surgery: A systematic review and network meta-analysis of phase II/III randomized controlled trials

BACKGROUND & AIMS

The preoperative use of carbohydrate loading (CHO) is recommended in patients undergoing abdominal surgery, even if the advantages remain debatable. The aim was to evaluate the CHO benefits in patients undergoing abdominal surgery.

METHODS

A systematic search of randomized clinical trials was made. A frequentist random-effects network meta-analysis was carried out, reporting the surface under the cumulative ranking (SUCRA). The primary endpoint regarded the morbidity rate. The secondary endpoints were aspiration/regurgitation rates, the length of stay (LOS), the rate of postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV), the changes (Δ) in insulin sensitivity or resistance, and the postoperative C- reactive protein (CRP) values.

RESULTS

CHO loading and water administration had a similar probability of being the approach with a lower morbidity rate (SUCRA = 62.4% and 64.7%). CHO and clear water also had a similar chance of avoiding the PONV (SUCRA of 80.8% and 77%). The aspiration regurgitation rate was not relevant in non-fasting patients (0.06%). CHO administration was associated with the shorter hospitalization (SUCRA 86.9%), with the best metabolic profile (SUCRA values for insulin resistance and sensitivity were 81.1% and 76%). CHO enriched was the best approach for postoperative CRP values. Preoperative fasting was the worst approach for morbidity, PONV, insulin resistance and sensitivity, and CRP (SUCRA values of 32.1%, 21.7%, 10.2%, 3.2%, and 2.0%).

CONCLUSION

Both preoperative CHO loading and clear water use were superior to the fasting about morbidity. CHO drinks use could provide specific advantages, reduce the PONV rate, and improve carbohydrate homeostasis, inflammatory pathway, and hospitalization.

Enhanced recovery after surgery: anesthesia-related components

Background: Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) is a multidisciplinary and multimodal evidence-based approach aimed at improving the recovery of surgical patients. Successful implementation of ERAS protocols requires proper perioperative communication and collaboration among surgeons, anesthesiologists, nurses, and other medical personnel.Current Concepts: The anesthesiologist is the clinical leader responsible for the ERAS program. Preoperative patient evaluation, optimization, and patient education are essential components of the ERAS program. The program also involves preoperative fasting and carbohydrate loading to minimize catabolic effects. Selection of an appropriate anesthetic regimen, fluid and temperature management, avoidance of intra/postoperative nausea and vomiting, and multimodal pain management are the key components of ERAS for which the anesthesiologist is responsible.Discussion and Conclusion: Factors that enable the successful implementation of ERAS include the willingness to change to ERAS, formation of multidisciplinary teams to improve cooperation, and support from the hospital management, as well as standardization of order sets and care processes and the appropriate use of audits. As the leader of the ERAS team, the anesthesiologist should be actively involved in comprehensive management of the patient during the perioperative period.

The impact of oral carbohydrate-rich supplement taken two hours before caesarean delivery on maternal and neonatal perioperative outcomes -- a randomized clinical trial

Background

To evaluate the impact of oral carbohydrate-rich (Ch-R) supplement taken 2 hours before an elective caesarean delivery (CD) on maternal and neonatal perioperative outcomes.

Methods

Ninety pregnant women undergoing elective CD were randomized into the Ch-R group, placebo group and fasting group equally. Participants’ blood was drawn at three time points, before intervention, immediately after and 1 day after the surgery to measure maternal and neonatal biochemical indices. Meanwhile women’s perioperative symptoms and signs were recorded.

Results

Eighty-eight pregnant women were finally included in the study. Women who had drunk Ch-R supplement had lower postoperative insulin level (β = − 3.50, 95% CI − 5.45 to − 1.56), as well as postoperative HOMA-IR index (β = − 0.74, 95% CI − 1.15 to − 0.34), compared with women who had fasted. Additionally, neonates of mothers who were allocated in the Ch-R group also had a higher glucose level, compared with neonates of mothers in the fasting group (β = 0.40, CI 0.17 to 0.62).

Conclusion

Oral Ch-R solution administered 2 hours before an elective CD may not only alleviate maternal postoperative insulin resistance, but also comfort women’s preoperative thirst and hunger, compared to fasting. Additionally, it may increase neonatal glucose level as well.

Trial registration

Chinese Clinical Trial Registry, ChiCTR2000033163.

Data of Registration: 2020-5-22.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12884-021-04155-z.

The Effects of Surgery Cancellation on Patients, Families, and Staff: A Prospective Cross-Sectional Study

PURPOSE

This study aimed to investigate the effects of surgery cancellation, as a common and never-ending problem within preoperative care, and its related factors on patients, family members, and medical staff.

DESIGN

The research design implemented a prospective cross-sectional type.

METHODS

This study was conducted for four months in two main teaching/general medical centers. The data collection tool was comprised of three researcher-made questionnaires for patients, families, and medical staff, separately. The samples also included a total number of 315 patients, family members, and medical staff.

FINDINGS

The results revealed that the frequency distribution of all physical and emotional effects was higher in men than in women though it was not statistically significant. Each patient had been fasting for an average of 13.26 hours until the announcement of surgery cancellation. The most prevalent physical effects in the patients were hunger, thirst, and headache, respectively. The average cost of each surgery cancellation for the patients was almost twice that for the family members. There was a significant correlation between emotional effects in the patients and the families and the reason for cancellation and informants.

CONCLUSIONS

Each surgery cancellation increased fasting time in patients by an average of 5 to 7 hours. Cancellation also correspondingly led to economic harms for the patients and the families, waste of operating room resources, and duplications. Since the most common reasons for surgery cancellation were patient-related and a significant correlation was observed between the reason for cancellation and emotional effects in the patients and the families, our recommendation is to strengthen patient protocols in terms of preoperative preparation and to review admission and information processes for patients undergoing surgeries.

Gastric emptying of preoperative carbohydrate in elderly assessed using gastric ultrasonography: A randomized controlled study

BACKGROUND

Preoperative carbohydrate loading enhances postoperative recovery and reduces patient discomfort. However, gastric emptying of liquids can be delayed in elderly populations. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the gastric emptying of 400 mL of a carbohydrate drink ingested 2 hours before surgery in elderly patients.

METHODS

In this prospective, randomized controlled study, patients aged >65 years were allocated to either fast from midnight (nil per os [NPO] group, n = 29) or drink 400 mL of a carbohydrate drink 2 hours before surgery (carbohydrate group, n = 29). The gastric antrum was assessed using ultrasonography in the supine position, followed by the right lateral decubitus (RLD) position. The gastric antrum was graded as grade 0 (fluid not seen in both positions), grade 1 (fluid only seen in the RLD position), and grade 2 (fluid seen in both positions). The gastric antral cross-sectional area (CSA) and aspirated residual gastric volume were measured.

RESULTS

In 58 patients, the incidence of grade 2 stomach was 13.8% in NPO group and 17.2% in carbohydrate group (P = .790). The gastric antral CSA in the supine position was larger in carbohydrate group than in NPO group (4.42 [3.72-5.18] cm2 vs 5.31 [4.35-6.92] cm2, P = .018). The gastric antral CSA in the RLD position was not different in NPO and carbohydrate groups (P = .120). There was no difference in gastric volume (2 [0-7.5] vs 3 [0-13.4], P = .331) in NPO group versus carbohydrate group.

CONCLUSION

The incidence of grade 2 stomach was not different between NPO group and carbohydrate group in elderly patients.

Guide to Enhanced Recovery for Cancer Patients Undergoing Surgery: ERAS for Patients Undergoing Cytoreductive Surgery with or Without HIPEC

ERAS protocols may reduce length of stay and return to full functional recovery after cytoreductive surgery and HIPEC. Prehabilitation programs and post-operative goal directed pathways, along with other essential components of ERAS are discussed with supporting evidence.

Preoperative immunonutrition and carbohydrate loading associated with improved bowel function after radical cystectomy

BACKGROUND

Preoperative malnourishment has been consistently associated with poor outcomes after radical cystectomy and other major abdominal surgeries. Most enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) studies have examined preoperative nutrition and its relationship to outcomes after gastrointestinal surgery. Although numerous studies have demonstrated the benefits of using an ERAS protocol, this study in unique in comparing 2 ERAS protocols, with and without a nutrition component.

METHODS

A formalized preoperative nutrition protocol (PNP) recommending use of preoperative immunonutrition and carbohydrate drink was introduced in June 2018. A total of 78 consecutive patients who drank both beverages were compared with 92 historical controls. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were sequentially performed to determine if preoperative nutrition was associated with binary outcome variables (30-day complication, infectious complication, and readmission within 30 days).

RESULTS

The preoperative nutrition group and control group were statistically similar in distribution of age, sex, American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status classification, clinical stage, and body mass index. Return of bowel function was found to occur earlier in the preoperative nutrition group than in the control group (3.12 vs 3.74 days; relative risk, 0.82; CI, 0.73-0.93; P = .0029). Complications within 30 days were similar in both groups (63.6% vs 55.4%; P = 0.36). Infectious complications (42.9% vs 37%; P = .53) and readmission within 30 days (22.1% vs 15.2%; P = .34) were also similar in both groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Use of a PNP including immunonutrition and carbohydrate drink may be associated with earlier return of bowel function after radical cystectomy.

The influence of preoperative carbohydrate loading on postoperative outcomes in bariatric surgery patients: a randomized, controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Preoperative carbohydrate loading is a component of Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocols, but there is limited literature in bariatric surgery patients.

OBJECTIVES

The objective of this study was to characterize the impact of preoperative carbohydrate loading on postoperative bariatric surgery outcomes.

SETTING

University Hospital.

METHODS

Patients undergoing a primary minimally invasive Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) or sleeve gastrectomy (SG) between 2018 and 2020 were randomized to standard management or intervention. Standard management patients were nothing by mouth (NPO) after midnight prior to surgery. Intervention patients consumed 2 carbohydrate drinks: 1 the night before and another 3 hours prior to surgery. Primary outcomes analyzed included postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV), length of stay, and overall complications.

RESULTS

In total, 134 patients were analyzed: 64 intervention (47.8%) and 70 (52.2%) standard. In the end, 7% and 15% of patients were lost to follow-up at 6-weeks and 3-months, respectively. There was no statistically significant difference in length of stay (2.0 ± 1.2 vs 2.1 ± .9 d; P = .65) or postoperative outcomes between the 2 groups. There were no episodes of aspiration among the intervention group. Among RYGB patients, intervention patients had a shorter duration of nausea compared with standard patients. There was no significant difference in glycemic control among patients with and without diabetes.

CONCLUSIONS

Preoperative carbohydrate drinks can be administered to bariatric surgery patients without significant risks. Carbohydrate loading preoperatively can decrease the duration of PONV in RYGB patients. Carbohydrate drinks can be safely included in bariatric ERAS protocols for patients with and without diabetes, although the benefits remain unknown.

Enhanced Recovery After Major Gastrectomy for Cancer

Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocols have gained increasing popularity over the past 10 years, and its overarching objectives are to improve perioperative morbidity and reduce postoperative length of stay. Consensus guidelines from the ERAS Society specific to major gastrectomy were published in 2014, however since that time, prospective and retrospective studies have expanded the collective evidence for both the content and efficacy of ERAS pathways for gastrectomy. This objective of this review was to summarize recent data pertinent to the preoperative, perioperative, and postoperative management of gastrectomy patients along an ERAS pathway.

Effect of low-concentration carbohydrate on patient-centered quality of recovery in patients undergoing thyroidectomy: a prospective randomized trial

BACKROUND

At present, low-concentration carbohydrate is rarely used in minor trauma surgery, and its clinical efficacy is unknown. The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of preoperative oral low-concentration carbohydrate on patient-centered quality of recovery in patients undergoing thyroidectomy using Quality of Recovery - 15 (QoR-15) questionnaire.

METHODS

One hundred twenty patients were randomized to oral intake of 300 ml carbohydrate solution (CH group) or 300 ml pure water (PW group) 2 h before surgery or fasting for 8 h before surgery (F group). The QoR-15 questionnaire was administered to compare the quality of recovery at 1d before surgery (T0), 24 h, 48 h, 72 h after surgery (T1, T2, T3), and perioperative blood glucose was recorded.

RESULTS

Compared to the F group, the QoR-15 scores were statistically higher in the CH and PW group at T1 (P < 0.05), and the enhancement of recovery quality reached the clinical significance at T1 in the CH group compared with the F group. Among the five dimensions of the QoR-15 questionnaire, physical comfort, physiological support and emotional dimension in the CH group were significantly better than the F group (P < 0.05) at T1. Besides, blood glucose of CH group was significantly lower than the PW group and F group at each time point after surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

Low-concentration carbohydrate could decrease the incidence of postoperative hyperglycemia and improve the patient-centered quality of recovery on patients undergoing open thyroidectomy at the early stage postoperatively.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ChiCTR1900024731 . Date of registration: 25/07/2019.

"Enhanced recovery after surgery - ERAS in elective craniotomies-a non-randomized controlled trial"

BACKGROUND

Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) is a multimodal perioperative care bundle aimed at the early recovery of patients. Well accepted in gastric and pelvic surgeries, there is minimal evidence in neurosurgery and neurocritical care barring spinal surgeries. We wished to compare the length of intensive care unit (ICU) or high dependency unit (HDU) stay of patients undergoing elective craniotomy for supratentorial neurosurgery: ERAS protocol versus routine care. The secondary objective was to compare the postoperative pain scores, opioid use, glycemic control, and the duration of postoperative hospital stay between the two groups.

METHODS

In this pragmatic non-randomized controlled trial (CTRI/2017/07/015451), consenting adult patients scheduled for elective supratentorial intracranial tumor excision were enrolled prospectively after institutional ethical clearance and consent. Elements-of-care in the ERAS group were- Preoperative -family education, complex-carbohydrate drink, flupiritine; Intraoperative - scalp blocks, limited opioids, rigorous fluid and temperature regulation; Postoperative- flupiritine, early mobilization, removal of catheters, and initiation of feeds. Apart from these, all perioperative protocols and management strategies were similar between groups. The two groups were compared with regards to the length of ICU stay, pain scores in ICU, opioid requirement, glycemic control, and hospital stay duration. The decision for discharge from ICU and hospital, data collection, and analysis was by independent assessors blind to the patient group.

RESULTS

Seventy patients were enrolled. Baseline demographics - age, sex, tumor volume, and comorbidities were comparable between the groups. The proportion of patients staying in the ICU for less than 48 h after surgery, the cumulative insulin requirement, and the episodes of VAS scores > 4 in the first 48 h after surgery was significantly less in the ERAS group - 40.6% vs. 65.7%, 0.6 (±2.5) units vs. 3.6 (±8.1) units, and one vs. ten episodes (p = 0.04, 0.001, 0.004 respectively). The total hospital stay was similar in both groups.

CONCLUSION

The study demonstrated a significant reduction in the proportion of patients requiring ICU/ HDU stay > 48 h. Better pain and glycemic control in the postoperative period may have contributed to a decreased stay. More extensive randomized studies may be designed to confirm these results.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Clinical Trial Registry of India ( CTRI/2018/04/013247 ), registered retrospectively on April 2018.

Effects of preoperative oral single-dose and double-dose carbohydrates on insulin resistance in patients undergoing gastrectomy:a prospective randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Preoperative oral carbohydrates are strongly recommended for routine use before various elective procedures. The regimen mainly includes preoperative oral single-dose carbohydrate (2-3 h before surgery) and preoperative oral double-dose carbohydrates (10 h before surgery and 2-3 h before surgery). The choice between the two options is still controversial.

METHODS

A total of 139 patients with gastric cancer who underwent radical gastrectomy were recruited from a hospital in Sichuan Province, China. The patients were randomly assigned to a single-dose group (n = 70) or a double-dose group (n = 69). Insulin resistance indicators, subjective comfort indicators, inflammatory mediators, immunological indicators, postoperative recovery indexes, and complications were compared between the two groups.

RESULTS

There were no differences in insulin resistance indicators (fasting plasma glucose, fasting insulin, and homeostasis model assessment indexes), inflammatory mediators (C-reactive protein, interleukin-6, and tumor necrosis factor-α), immunological indicators (CD3+, CD4+, CD8+, and CD4+/CD8+) between the single-dose group and double-dose group (all P > 0.05) at preoperative day 1, preoperative 3 h, and postoperative day 1. There were no differences in subjective comfort indicators (thirst, hunger, anxiety, nausea, fatigue, and weakness) between the two groups (all P > 0.05) at preoperative day 1, preoperative 3 h, preoperative 1 h, and postoperative day 1. The postoperative recovery indexes and complications (exhaust time, liquid intake time, postoperative hospital stay, complication incidence, unplanned readmission rate, and unplanned reoperation rate 30 days after operation) did not significantly differ between the two groups (all P > 0.05). The number of preoperative nighttime urinations in the double-dose group was higher than that in the single-dose group (88.3% VS 48.5%, P < 0.001), and the number of hours of preoperative sleep in the double-dose group was lower than that in the single-dose group (4.56 ± 0.68 VS 5.71 ± 0.57, P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Oral carbohydrates administered the night before surgery did not enhance the effects of oral carbohydrates administered 2-3 h before surgery on insulin resistance, subjective comfort, inflammation, and immunity and might affect the patients' night rest. In making a decision between oral carbohydrate regimes, evening carbohydrates could be omitted.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ChiCTR, ChiCTR1900020608. Registered January 10, 2019, http://www.chictr.org.cn: ChiCTR1900020608.

Nutritional Orthopedics and Space Nutrition as Two Sides of the Same Coin: A Scoping Review

Since the Moon landing, nutritional research has been charged with the task of guaranteeing human health in space. In addition, nutrition applied to Orthopedics has developed in recent years, driven by the need to improve the efficiency of the treatment path by enhancing the recovery after surgery. As a result, nutritional sciences have specialized into two distinct fields of research: Nutritional Orthopedics and Space Nutrition. The former primarily deals with the nutritional requirements of old patients in hospitals, whereas the latter focuses on the varied food challenges of space travelers heading to deep space. Although they may seem disconnected, they both investigate similar nutritional issues. This scoping review shows what these two disciplines have in common, highlighting the mutual features between (1) pre-operative vs. pre-launch nutritional programs, (2) hospital-based vs. space station nutritional issues, and (3) post-discharge vs. deep space nutritional resilience. PubMed and Google Scholar were used to collect documents published from 1950 to 2020, from which 44 references were selected on Nutritional Orthopedics and 44 on Space Nutrition. Both the orthopedic patient and the astronaut were found to suffer from food insecurity, malnutrition, musculoskeletal involution, flavor/pleasure issues, fluid shifts, metabolic stresses, and isolation/confinement. Both fields of research aid the planning of demand-driven food systems and advanced nutritional approaches, like tailored diets with nutrients of interest (e.g., vitamin D and calcium). The nutritional features of orthopedic patients on Earth and of astronauts in space are undeniably related. Consequently, it is important to initiate close collaborations between orthopedic nutritionists and space experts, with the musculoskeletal-related dedications playing as common fuel.

An Optimized Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) Pathway Improved Patient Care in Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis Surgery: A Retrospective Cohort Study

OBJECTIVE

An optimized Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) program is lacking for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). The aim of the present study was to evaluate the impact and feasibility of an optimized ERAS pathway in patients with surgically treated AIS.

METHODS

In total, 79 patients with AIS who underwent corrective surgery without 3-column osteotomy were recruited from Xijing Hospital of the Fourth Military Medical University between 2012 and 2018. Forty-four patients were treated according to a traditional protocol and 35 were managed using an optimized ERAS pathway, which was designed and implemented by a multidisciplinary team. The following data were collected and retrospectively analyzed, demographic characteristics, Cobb angle, curve type (Lenke), surgical duration, fusion level, correction rate, estimated blood loss, postoperative hemoglobin level, postoperative pain score, pain relief time, hemovac drainage, drainage removal time, first ambulation time, length of hospital stay, and postoperative complications.

RESULTS

There was no significant difference between the traditional and ERAS groups with respect to demographic characteristics, Cobb angle, curve type (Lenke), fusion level, and correction rate. However, the ERAS group had a shorter surgical duration, less blood loss and hemovac drainage, a higher postoperative hemoglobin level, and earlier pain relief, ambulation, and discharge. The rates of postoperative nausea and vomiting were lower in the ERAS group than in the traditional group.

CONCLUSIONS

The ERAS pathway is capable of improving the perioperative status of patients with AIS by offering stronger analgesia, faster ambulation, and earlier discharge.

Effects of a Preoperative Carbohydrate-Rich Drink Before Ambulatory Surgery: A Randomized Controlled, Double-Blinded Study

Background

The guidelines recommend oral carbohydrates up to 2 hr before elective surgery. The objective of this study was to explore the safety and feasibility of preoperative carbohydrate drink in patients undergoing ambulatory surgery.

Material/Methods

Patients undergoing ambulatory surgery under general anesthesia were enrolled. They were fasted from midnight and randomly assigned to a study group (200 mL of a carbohydrate beverage) or the control group (pure water) and received the assigned drink 2 hr before surgery. Bedside ultrasonography was performed to monitor gastric emptying at T₀ (before liquid intake), T₁ (5 min after intake), T₂ (1 hr after intake), and T₃ (2 hr after intake). Subjective feelings of thirst, hunger, anxiety, and fatigue were assessed 1 hr after liquid intake using the visual analogue scale (VAS).

Results

In both groups, gastric antrum cross-sectional area, gastric content volume, and weight-corrected gastric content volume increased at T₁ and returned to baseline at T₃. These parameters were significantly higher in the study group at T₂ (6.28±1.38 vs. 4.98±0.78, 67.22±29.49 vs. 49.04±15.4, 1.10±0.51 vs. 0.85±0.37, P<0.05). Thirst and hunger VAS scores were reduced in both groups. The study group suffered significantly less hunger (28.44±10.41 vs. 36.03±14.42, P<0.05). Blood electrolytes (sodium, potassium, calcium) and glucose concentration levels were similar in both groups at T₂. No gastric regurgitation or pulmonary aspiration was recorded.

Conclusions

Administration of 200 mL of oral carbohydrate beverage 2 hr before ambulatory surgery is safe, effective, and can be used for preoperative management of fasting patients.

Guidelines for Perioperative Care in Cytoreductive Surgery (CRS) with or without hyperthermic IntraPEritoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC): Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS®) Society Recommendations - Part I: Preoperative and intraoperative management

BACKGROUND

Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) pathways have been shown to considerably reduce complications, length of stay and costs after most of surgical procedures by standardised application of best evidence-based perioperative care. The aim was to elaborate dedicated recommendations for cytoreductive surgery (CRS) ± hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) in a two-part series of guidelines based on expert consensus. The present part I of the guidelines highlights preoperative and intraoperative management.

METHODS

The core group assembled a multidisciplinary panel of 24 experts involved in peritoneal surface malignancy surgery representing the fields of general surgery (n = 12), gynaecological surgery (n = 6), and anaesthesia (n = 6). Experts systematically reviewed and summarized the available evidence on 72 identified perioperative care items, following the GRADE (grading of recommendations, assessment, development, evaluation) system. Final consensus (defined as ≥50%, or ≥70% of weak/strong recommendations combined) was reached by a standardised 2-round Delphi process, regarding the strength of recommendations.

RESULTS

Response rates were 100% for both Delphi rounds. Quality of evidence was evaluated high, moderate low and very low, for 15 (21%), 26 (36%), 29 (40%) and 2 items, respectively. Consensus was reached for 71/72(98.6%) items. Strong recommendations were defined for 37 items, No consensus could be reached regarding the preemptive use of fresh frozen plasma.

CONCLUSION

The present ERAS recommendations for CRS±HIPEC are based on a standardised expert consensus process providing clinicians with valuable guidance. There is an urgent need to produce high quality studies for CRS±HIPEC and to prospectively evaluate recommendations in clinical practice.

Effect of shortening preoperative time of fasting and forbidding water on clinical outcome of elderly patients with gastrointestinal cancer

BACKGROUND

Prolonged fasting and water deprivation before surgery can easily lead to adverse reactions such as hunger, thirst, hypoglycemia, etc., especially in elderly patients. At present, most studies support shortening the duration of preoperative fasting and water, while domestic guidelines for preoperative fasting and water deprivation are for children, and there is no authoritative guide for adults.

AIM

To observe the effect of shortening preoperative time of fasting and forbidding water on the clinical outcome of elderly patients with gastrointestinal cancer.

METHODS

One hundred elderly patients with gastrointestinal cancer were divided into two groups (n = 50 each): experimental group and control group. The experimental group was fasted for 12 h and forbidden to drink water for 6 h before operation, and the control group was fasted for 6 h and forbidden to drink water for 2 h before operation. The changes of preoperative response, anesthesia effect, recovery time, hemodynamic index [mean arterial pressure (MAP), heart rate (HR)], and pulse oxygen saturation (SPO₂) before and 5 min after surgery were recorded. Postoperative rehabilitation effect was also recorded.

RESULTS

There were 6 (12%) cases in the experimental group and 29 (58%) in the control group. Preoperative reactions such as thirst, starvation, fatigue, and hope for eating occurred; the incidence between the two groups was statistically significant (χ² = 23.253, P < 0.001). The MAP, HR, and SPO₂ were significantly decreased in the experimental group and the control group at 5 min after operation (P < 0.05). The HR and SPO₂ at 5 min after operation in the experimental group were significantly higher than those in the control group (P > 0.05), although there was no significant difference in the MAP between the two groups (P < 0.05). There was no significant difference in the anesthesia effect between the two groups (P > 0.05), but there was a significant difference in the recovery time between them (t = -3.121, P = 0.002). There were significant differences in time to postoperative gastric tube removal, time to anal exhaust, time to body temperature recovery, and hospitalization days between the two groups (P < 0.05). There were no significant differences in postoperative nausea, postoperative vomiting, postoperative thirst, hunger, or postoperative pneumonia between the two groups (P > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Reasonable arrangement of preoperative fasting time in elderly patients with gastrointestinal cancer may reduce the preoperative discomfort of patients and effectively improve the therapeutic effects, which is of great significance for the smooth performance of surgery and the promotion of postoperative rehabilitation.

Assessment of Nutrition and Supplementation in Patients With Hip Fractures

Introduction:

Malnutrition is common in older people, is known to interact with frailty, and is a risk factor for wound complications and poor functional outcomes postoperatively. Sustaining a hip fracture is a significant life event, often resulting in a decline in mobility and functional ability. A poor nutritional state may further impede recovery and rehabilitation, so strategies to improve perioperative nutrition are of considerable importance. We provide a review of nutritional supplement practices in this vulnerable and growing population.

Method:

Systematic review of preoperative oral nutritional supplementation (ONS) in hip fracture patients.

Results:

We identified 12 articles pertaining to this important area of perioperative care. The findings suggest postoperative ONS can improve postoperative outcomes in hip fracture patients, especially in terms of increasing total serum protein, improving nutritional status to near-optimum levels, and decreasing postoperative complications.

Discussion:

There is an absence of evidence specific to preoperative ONS in patients admitted following hip fracture. Literature relating to other populations is encouraging but is yet to be robustly studied. It is unclear whether these results are generalizable to the frailer hip fracture population. There is a need for studies clearly defining outcome measurement and complication assessment pertaining to preoperative ONS. The potential benefit is considerable, and this review will provide a means to inform the construction of meaningful trials in preoperative ONS of patients sustaining hip fracture.

Conclusion:

Oral nutritional supplementation in hip fracture patients may decrease postoperative complications while increasing elderly patient’s nutritional state to a near-optimum level. This is extrapolated from postoperative literature, however with a clear gap in research pertaining specifically to preoperative care. The need for well-constructed studies focused on the impact and assessment of early ONS in this population is transparent.

A randomised controlled study of preoperative oral carbohydrate loading versus fasting in patients undergoing colorectal surgery

PURPOSE

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of preoperative carbohydrate oral (CHO) loading on the postoperative metabolic and inflammatory response, perioperative discomfort and surgical clinical outcomes in open colorectal surgery compared with a conventional fasting protocol.

METHODS

Fifty patients were randomly allocated to either the intervention group (CHO), to receive preoperative oral carbohydrate supplementation, or the control group (FAST), to undergo preoperative fasting. Insulin resistance, insulin sensitivity, the Glasgow Prognostic Score (GPS) and IL-6 levels were analysed at 06 h on the day of surgery (T₁), 6 h after surgery (T₂) and at 06 h on postoperative day 1 (T₃) and postoperative day 2 (T₄). Thirst, hunger, dry mouth, weakness, anxiety and pain were assessed using the visual analogue scale (VAS) prior to anaesthesia induction and at 0-4, 4-8, 8-12 and 12-24 h after surgery. Surgical clinical outcomes included the return of gastrointestinal function, time to independent ambulation and postoperative discharge day.

RESULTS

Postoperative insulin resistance was 30% lower (p < 0.03) and insulin sensitivity was 15% higher (p < 0.05) in the CHO group than in the FAST group. The GPS was lower in the CHO group at T₁ (p < 0.001), T₃ (p < 0.01) and T₄ (p < 0.004). IL-6 serum levels were lower at the analysed postoperative time points in the CHO group (p < 0.001). The VAS well-being score was lower in the intervention group (p < 0.001); however, the VAS pain score was not significantly different between the groups. The evaluated surgical outcomes appeared earlier in the CHO group (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

A preoperative CHO drink reduced the postoperative metabolic and inflammatory response and improved subjective well-being and surgical clinical outcomes but did not diminish the VAS pain score.

Enhanced recovery after surgical repair of incisional hernias

AIM

Enhanced recovery programmes (ERPs) were developed to improve the patient's post-operative comfort and reduce post-operative morbidity after several types of major surgery including the incisional hernia repair. The aim of this review was to describe the features of ERPs in the setting for incisional hernia repair.

METHODS

The literature review was conducted until March 2019, but retrieved very few papers (n = 4) on this topic. All studies were retrospective.

RESULTS

Setting and comorbidities of incisional hernia patients are of such importance in many cases that prehabilitation (including tobacco use cessation, management of obesity, diabetes or malnutrition) should play a greater role compared with other specialties. The other peri-operative measures are similar to other specialties but their implementation was very heterogeneous in the published studies.

CONCLUSIONS

Like in other surgeries, ERPs were feasible and probably efficient to improve the post-operative course of incisional hernia patients. But the level of evidence remains low.

Multivariate analysis of incision infection after posterior lumbar surgery in diabetic patients: A single-center retrospective analysis

BACKGROUND

Patients requiring posterior lumbar surgery have increased annually. Incision infection after lumbar surgery has serious consequences for patients. However, data on the related factors of incision infection after lumbar surgery in diabetic patients are limited. Therefore, this study aimed to analyze diabetic patients who underwent lumbar surgery and to explore the risk factors of perioperative incision infection to provide a scientific basis for perioperative intervention of lumbar spine surgery and reduce risk of incision infection in such patients.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed data of diabetic patients who underwent posterior lumbar surgery from 2011 to 2016. A total of 523 diabetic patients undergoing posterior lumbar surgery were analyzed for the influence of various risk factors on postoperative incision infection. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression was performed. The test level was α=.05, and P < .05 was considered statistically significant.

RESULTS

In the past 6 years, among the 523 diabetic patients, the incidence of incision infection after posterior lumbar surgery was approximately 7.1%, of which the shallow incision infection rate was 4.2% and the deep incision infection rate was 2.9%. Incision infection of posterior lumbar surgery in diabetic patients is related to smoking, preoperative glycosylated hemoglobin A1c, postoperative albumin (Alb), surgical segment, operation time, and intraoperative blood loss, especially on postoperative fasting blood glucose, postoperative postprandial blood glucose, local subcutaneous fat thickness, and operation sequence (odds ratio >5.00). Meanwhile, sex, age, body mass index (BMI), preoperative Alb, and newly diagnosed diabetes were not highly correlated with incision infection after posterior lumbar surgery.

CONCLUSION

Local subcutaneous fat thickness is a better indicator for predicting incision infection compared with BMI. In diabetic patients undergoing lumbar surgery, actively controlling blood glucose fluctuations, restoring normal diet early after surgery, and optimizing surgical procedures to reduce trauma and operative time can effectively reduce the risk of infection after posterior lumbar surgery.

Preoperative nutritional optimization of esophageal cancer patients

Optimization of the nutritional and metabolic state prior to major surgery leads to improved surgical outcomes and is increasingly seen as an important part of oncology disease management. For locally advanced esophageal cancer the treatment is multimodal, including neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy or perioperative chemotherapy in combination with esophageal resection. Patients undergoing such a multimodal treatment have a higher risk for progressive decline in their nutritional status. Preoperative malnutrition and loss of skeletal muscle mass has been reported to correlate with unfavorable outcomes in patients who undergo esophageal cancer surgery. Decline in nutritional status is most likely caused by insufficient nutritional intake, reduced physical activity, systemic inflammation and the effects of anticancer therapy. To ensure an optimal nutritional status prior to surgery, it is key to assess the nutritional status in all preoperative esophageal cancer patients, preferable early in the treatment trajectory, and to apply nutritional interventions accordingly. Nutritional management of esophageal cancer can be challenging, the optimal nutritional therapy is still under debate, and warrants more nutritional scientific research. In this review, the most recent findings regarding preoperative nutrition associated with outcomes in patients with esophageal cancer will be explored.

A randomized controlled study of preoperative oral carbohydrate loading versus fasting in patients undergoing elective craniotomy

OBJECT

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of preoperative oral carbohydrate loading versus fasting on the outcomes of patients undergoing elective craniotomy.

METHODS

In a single-center randomized controlled study, 120 neurosurgical patients who were admitted for elective craniotomy were included and randomized into 2 groups: 58 patients received 400 mL of oral carbohydrate loading 2 h before surgery (intervention group), and 62 patients were fasting for 8 h prior to surgery as routine management (control group). The primary end point was glucose homeostasis. Secondary outcomes included handgrip strength, pulmonary function and postoperative complications.

RESULTS

Better glucose homeostasis (5.6 ± 1.0 mmol/L vs. 6.3 ± 1.2 mmol/L, P = 0.001) was achieved in patients who received preoperative oral carbohydrate loading compared to fasting. Furthermore, patients in the intervention group had better handgrip strength (25.3 ± 7.1 kg vs. 19.9 ± 7.5 kg, P < 0.0001) and pulmonary function (in terms of peak expiratory flow rate) (315.8 ± 91.5 L/min vs. 270.0 ± 102.7 L/min, P = 0.036) compared to the controls postoperatively. The rates of postoperative surgical and non-surgical complications did not differ between the groups. Both postoperative and total hospital length of stay (LOS) reduced significantly in the intervention group (-3d, P < 0.0001 and P = 0.004).

CONCLUSIONS

Oral carbohydrate loading given 2 h before surgery in patients undergoing elective craniotomy seems to improve glucose homeostasis, handgrip strength and pulmonary function as well as decrease LOS without increasing the risk of postoperative complications. Routine use of preoperative oral carbohydrate loading could be suggested in clinical settings, though further evaluation of its safety and efficacy is warranted.

Enhanced Recovery After Surgery: Urology

Enhanced recovery after surgery programs were developed as a type of standardized evidence-based perioperative care protocols. The necessity and benefit of clinical care pathways is not a new phenomenon in urology and have been a big part of the evolution of care for urology patients, especially in terms of urologic oncology. This article discusses the key components of evidence-based perioperative care in key urologic procedures. These protocols have been shown to decrease length of stay, decrease complications, and reduce cost.