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Experience with early postoperative feeding after abdominal aortic surgery
Po-Jen Ko1, Hung-Chang Hsieh, Yun-Hen Liu
1Division of Thoracic & Cardiovascular Surgery Department of Surgery, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taipei. pjko@cgmh.org.tw
Chang Gung Medical Journal
|May 20, 2004
Summary
Early feeding after open abdominal aortic aneurysm repair is safe and feasible. This approach, combined with enhanced recovery protocols, can improve patient outcomes and shorten hospital stays.
Area of Science:
- Vascular Surgery
- Surgical Outcomes
- Postoperative Care
Background:
- Abdominal aortic surgery traditionally involves prolonged hospital stays and significant morbidity.
- Postoperative ileus is common, leading to delayed oral feeding.
- This study investigates early feeding after open abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) repair.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the feasibility and safety of early postoperative feeding following open AAA repair.
- To evaluate the impact of an enhanced recovery protocol on patient outcomes.
Main Methods:
- A review of 10 consecutive patients undergoing elective open AAA repair.
- Implementation of an early feeding postoperative care protocol including epidural anesthesia, PCA, early feeding, and rehabilitation.
- Analysis of postoperative recovery and length of hospital stay.
Main Results:
- All patients tolerated oral fluids within 24 hours postoperatively.
- Most patients resumed a regular diet within 3 days.
- Average hospital stay was 5.8 days with no major morbidity or mortality.
Conclusions:
- Early postoperative feeding is safe and feasible after open AAA repair.
- Enhanced recovery protocols, including early feeding, can improve outcomes and reduce hospital stay.
- This study demonstrates the initial success of an integrated postoperative recovery program for aortic repair.