Enhanced Recovery After Surgery versus Conventional Care in Cholecystectomy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Area of Science:

• Surgical Innovation
• Perioperative Medicine
• Gastrointestinal Surgery

Background:

• Cholecystectomy is a common surgical procedure.
• Optimizing perioperative care is crucial for patient recovery.
• Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocols aim to improve surgical outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the safety and efficacy of the ERAS protocol versus standard care for cholecystectomy.
• To compare key perioperative outcomes between ERAS and standard care groups.

Main Methods:

• A meta-analysis of nine studies involving 1920 patients.
• Literature search conducted in PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library.
• Data analyzed using Review Manager software; study registered with PROSPERO.

Main Results:

• ERAS group showed significantly shorter hospital stays (WMD: -1.23 days) and reduced operative times (WMD: -9.94 min).
• ERAS led to lower pain scores (VAS 24h, WMD: -1.10) and faster return of flatus (WMD: -4.48).
• Postoperative nausea and vomiting were significantly reduced in the ERAS group (OR: 0.46).

Conclusions:

• The ERAS protocol is a superior perioperative strategy for cholecystectomy.
• ERAS enhances patient recovery by reducing length of stay, pain, and nausea/vomiting.
• No significant differences in readmission, blood loss, or complications were noted.