BACKGROUND

Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) is a multimodal, multidisciplinary approach aimed at reducing organ failure and mitigating stress reactions in surgery patients. This investigation sought to assess available data concerning the benefits of ERAS protocols in improving patient outcomes for individuals undergoing significant colorectal surgery.

METHODS

The study involved 65 patients who underwent colectomy and lower anterior resection for rectal cancers. Patients were divided into three groups: Group 1 comprised 22 patients enrolled retrospectively who received the traditional protocol; Group 2 consisted of 20 patients enrolled prospectively who received the ERAS protocol; and Group 3 included 23 patients enrolled retrospectively who received the ERAS protocol. Each patient underwent a comprehensive history, physical examination, laboratory testing, computed tomography, MRI, and chest radiography.

RESULTS

Hospital stay durations were significantly shorter in both ERAS groups during the first and second cycles compared to the non-ERAS group (P<0.001, <0.001), with no significant difference between ERAS groups in either cycle. Delayed intestinal motility was significantly more pronounced in the non-ERAS group compared to ERAS groups in both cycles (P=0.005), with only five (22.7%) cases reported in the non-ERAS group.

CONCLUSION

ERAS implementation in the perioperative management of colorectal surgery patients is associated with improved outcomes and shorter recovery times. Implementation of ERAS in hospitals is feasible and beneficial.