Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocol in spine surgery

Area of Science:

• Orthopedics and Spine Surgery
• Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine
• Surgical Outcomes Research

Background:

• Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocols are evidence-based perioperative management strategies.
• Historically, ERAS application in spine surgery was considered complex, limiting its adoption.
• Recent advancements have led to the widespread integration of ERAS protocols in diverse spine surgeries.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the established benefits of ERAS protocols in spine surgery.
• To delineate the preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative components of ERAS in spinal procedures.
• To highlight the expanding scope of ERAS application within spine surgery subspecialties.

Main Methods:

• This study employed a narrative review methodology.
• Literature search focused on ERAS protocols and their application in various spine surgeries.
• Analysis included studies on lumbar spine, anterior cervical surgery, deformity, tumors, and elderly patients.

Main Results:

• ERAS protocols significantly reduce length of hospital stay and overall hospital costs.
• Perioperative and postoperative opioid consumption is notably decreased with ERAS implementation.
• ERAS is associated with a significant reduction in complication rates following spine surgery.

Conclusions:

• ERAS protocols are effective in improving patient recovery and outcomes across a spectrum of spine surgeries.
• The comprehensive application of ERAS measures, from pre- to post-operation, is crucial for maximizing benefits.
• Continued research and implementation of ERAS are vital for advancing spine surgery patient care.