Enhanced recovery after surgery in gastric resections

Area of Science:

• Surgical innovation
• Perioperative care

Background:

• Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocols optimize perioperative management for improved patient outcomes and faster recovery.
• While widely adopted in colorectal surgery, ERAS protocols have less established evidence in gastric surgery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a comprehensive fast-track protocol for resective gastric surgery.
• To provide evidence-based recommendations for optimizing patient recovery in gastric procedures.

Main Methods:

• Protocol development based on RICA guidelines (2015) and multidisciplinary consensus.
• Literature review and expert consensus meeting held on October 9, 2015, in Zaragoza.
• Defined procedures for preoperative, perioperative, and postoperative stages.

Main Results:

• Recommendations include patient education, limited fasting, carbohydrate loading 2 hours pre-surgery, specialized anesthesia, and minimally invasive techniques.
• Emphasizes avoiding routine drains/tubes, promoting early mobilization, and facilitating early oral intake.
• Outlines criteria for patient discharge.

Conclusions:

• Implementing ERAS protocols in resective gastric surgery enhances functional recovery.
• Requires multidisciplinary collaboration, outcome evaluation, and further research into areas with limited evidence.