Opinion Article - Case Reports in Surgery and Invasive Procedures (2023) Volume 7, Issue 4
Implementing Enhanced Recovery after Surgery (ERAS) Protocols in Emergency Abdominal Surgery
William Olivier*
Department of Visceral Surgery, University of Lausanne, Switzerland
- *Corresponding Author:
- William Olivier
Department of Visceral Surgery,
University of Lausanne,
Switzerland
E-mail:olivier@william10.ch
Received: 28-Jun-2023, Manuscript No. AACRSIP-23-104884; Editor assigned: 30-Jun-2023, PreQC No. AACRSIP-23-104884(PQ); Reviewed: 14-Jul-2023, QC No. AACRSIP-23-104884; Revised: 18-Jul-2023, Manuscript No. AACRSIP-23-104884; Published: 25-Jul-2023, DOI:10.35841/aacrsip-7.4.152
Citation: Olivier W. Implementing Enhanced Recovery after Surgery (ERAS) protocols in emergency abdominal surgery. Case Rep Surg Invasive Proced. 2023;7(4):152
Abstract
Introduction
Enhanced Recovery after Surgery (ERAS) protocols have revolutionized the field of surgical care by optimizing patient outcomes and reducing hospital stays. Initially developed for elective surgeries, these evidence-based perioperative care pathways have shown great potential in emergency abdominal surgery as well. By implementing ERAS protocols in emergency abdominal procedures, healthcare professionals can enhance patient recovery, decrease postoperative complications, and improve resource utilization. In this article, we will explore the benefits of ERAS protocols in emergency abdominal surgery and highlight key components of successful implementation.
Benefits of ERAS in emergency abdominal surgery
ERAS protocols have consistently demonstrated reduced morbidity and mortality rates in elective surgeries. By applying these principles to emergency abdominal procedures, healthcare professionals can help mitigate the risks associated with surgical stress, such as infection, organ dysfunction, and prolonged hospital stays [1].
ERAS emphasizes the use of multimodal analgesia, including regional anesthesia techniques and non-opioid pain medications. By implementing such strategies, emergency abdominal surgery patients can experience improved pain control, reduced opioid requirements, and faster recovery.
ERAS protocols focus on educating patients about their surgical journey, including expectations, self-care, and postoperative rehabilitation. In emergency abdominal surgery, these interventions can empower patients to actively participate in their recovery, leading to better compliance with post-discharge instructions and improved outcomes[2].
Key components of successful implementation
Implementing ERAS in emergency abdominal surgery requires a collaborative effort involving surgeons, anesthesiologists, nurses, nutritionists, and other healthcare professionals. A multidisciplinary team can develop and implement standardized protocols tailored to the unique challenges of emergency surgical care [3].
Early identification and management of comorbidities, nutritional assessment, and bowel preparation (if appropriate) are crucial elements of preoperative optimization in emergency abdominal surgery. Ensuring patients are in the best possible condition before surgery can significantly impact postoperative outcomes. Developing and implementing standardized care pathways aligned with ERAS principles is essential. These pathways should include specific guidelines for pain management, fluid administration, early mobilization, and perioperative nutrition, among others. Regular audits and feedback can help identify areas for improvement and ensure adherence to protocols [4].
Implementing ERAS protocols in emergency abdominal surgery represents a paradigm shift in patient care, focusing on proactive perioperative management and optimizing recovery. By combining evidence-based practices, multidisciplinary collaboration, and patient engagement, healthcare professionals can improve outcomes, reduce complications, and enhance resource utilization in emergency surgical settings. ERAS in emergency abdominal surgery has the potential to transform the landscape of acute surgical care, setting new benchmarks for patient-centered excellence [5].
References
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- Pedziwiatr M, Mavrikis J, Witowski J, et al. Current status of enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocol in gastrointestinal surgery. Med Oncol. 2018;35:1-8.
- Lohsiriwat V, Jitmungngan R. Enhanced recovery after surgery in emergency colorectal surgery: Review of literature and current practices. World J Gastrointest Surg. 2019;11(2):41.
- Paduraru M, Ponchietti L, Casas IM, et al. Enhanced recovery after emergency surgery: A systematic review. Bull Emerg Trauma. 2017 Apr;5(2):70.
- Pennington Z, Cottrill E, Lubelski D, et al. Systematic review and meta-analysis of the clinical utility of Enhanced Recovery After Surgery pathways in adult spine surgery. J Neurosurg: Spine. 2020;34(2):325-47.