The Impact of Enhanced Recovery After Surgery Compliance in Colorectal Surgery for Cancer

Abstract

Background: This study aimed to assess the impact of Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) compliance and to identify which components of this protocol are most likely to affect postoperative outcomes in patients undergoing colorectal cancer surgery. Methods: This is a retrospective cohort evaluating patients who underwent elective colon resection. ERAS compliance was assessed based on adherence to the protocol components. The study examined the following outcomes: postoperative complications, readmission rates, mortality, conversion to open surgery, stoma creation, and length of hospital stay. Results: Of the 410 patients studied, 59% achieved ≥75% compliance. Comparison between compliance groups (<75% versus ≥75%) showed significant differences in overall complications (P = .002), severe complications (P = .001), and length of hospital stay (P < .001). The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve for predicting the absence of severe complications based on ERAS compliance was 0.677 (95% confidence interval: 0.602-0.752). Logistic regression analyses demonstrated that ERAS compliance was significantly associated with a reduced risk of severe complications (P < .001), as well as that the following items: avoiding prophylactic drains (P < .001), minimal use of postoperative opioids (P = .045), avoidance of postoperative salt and water overload (P < .001), postoperative nutritional support (P = .048), and early mobilization (P = .025). Conclusion: High ERAS compliance is associated with improved postoperative outcomes in colorectal cancer surgery. Key protocol components for preventing severe complications include avoiding prophylactic drains, minimal postoperative opioid use, avoiding salt and water overload, nutritional support, and early mobilization.

Keywords: colorectal surgery; guideline adherence; minimally invasive surgical procedures; patient compliance; rectal neoplasms.