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Review
. 2013 Sep;26(3):139-45.
doi: 10.1055/s-0033-1351128.

Perioperative protocols in colorectal surgery

Mia Debarros  1 , Scott R Steele  1
Affiliations
Review

Perioperative protocols in colorectal surgery

Mia Debarros et al. Clin Colon Rectal Surg. 2013 Sep.

Abstract

The reduction in health-care expenditures and more efficient use of medical resources are now overriding health policy priorities with the two-pronged goal of improving patient outcomes while decreasing overall cost. Current reports show colorectal surgery accounting for 25% of all operative complications and an average length of stay of 8 to 12 days for a standard elective colon resection. To combat this, Kehlet and colleagues introduced a concept of enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) or fast-track pathways, with the goal of using current evidence and multimodal therapies to decrease surgical stress, enhance postoperative recovery, and reduce length of stay. The benefits, safety, and cost-effectiveness of fast-track protocols are validated in multiple randomized controlled trials. In this review, the authors focus on the evidence regarding fast-track pathways, use of minimally invasive surgery and its role in fast-track pathways, newer perioperative interventions, and future directions.

Keywords: ERAS; colorectal surgery; enhanced recovery after surgery; fast-track surgery; perioperative protocols.

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