An Expanded Preoperative Component within an Enhanced Recovery Protocol Improves Outcomes in Colorectal Surgery

Enhanced Recovery Protocols (ERPs) have been shown to lead to quicker recovery in colorectal surgery, with reduced postoperative length of stay (LOS). ERPs could potentially be improved with an expanded preoperative component reflecting current evidence. We hypothesize that an ERP with an expanded preoperative component will reduce LOS consistent with or exceeding that seen with traditional ERPs. Our ERP was implemented in June of 2014. Data was collected for two full years from July 2014 through June 2016. The protocol was employed in colorectal cases, both elective and emergent. Data from ERP cases were compared with contemporaneous controls that did not go through the ERP. Patients who underwent colorectal procedures and participated in the ERP with the expanded preoperative component had an average LOS of 5.33 days, whereas controls stayed for an average of 7.93 days (P value, <0.01). ERP cases also experienced fewer readmissions and complications, although statistical significance could not be established. The results demonstrate that an ERP with an enhanced preoperative component significantly reduces LOS and potentially decreases the rate of readmissions and total complications.