Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 15, 2026
05:07
Author Spotlight: Implementing the Enhanced Recovery After Surgery Concept in Rehabilitation Following Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction
Published on: March 1, 2024
2.6K
A Study of Various Barriers in Implementing "Enhanced Recovery After Cardiac Surgery (ERACS)" Program in Indian Setup
Krishna Prasad P Gourav1, Virendra K Arya1, Komal A Gandhi1
1Department of Anesthesia and intensive care, PGIMER, Chandigarh, India.
Annals of Cardiac Anaesthesia
|October 13, 2025
Summary
Enhanced recovery after cardiac surgery (ERACS) protocols show a 66.7% compliance rate, with mental inertia being the primary barrier. Addressing these challenges is key to improving patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Surgery
- Surgical Protocol Optimization
- Patient Recovery
Background:
- Enhanced Recovery After Cardiac Surgery (ERACS) protocols aim to improve patient outcomes.
- Compliance with ERACS protocols and associated barriers require investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the compliance rate with ERACS protocols.
- To identify barriers to ERACS protocol non-compliance in cardiac surgery patients.
Main Methods:
- Prospective observational study in a quaternary teaching hospital.
- 19-point ERACS protocol implemented in 577 major cardiac surgery patients.
- Analysis of 8,041 interventions and identified non-compliance barriers.
Main Results:
- Overall compliance rate was 66.7%; preoperative checklist adherence was complete.
- Debriefing had the lowest compliance.
- Key barriers: resistance to change (46.1%), lack of motivation (13.7%), insufficient knowledge (12%).
- Proper handover reduced ventilation duration and ICU stay.
Conclusions:
- Nine significant barriers to ERACS adherence were identified.
- Mental inertia (resistance to change) is the most common barrier.
- Addressing identified barriers is crucial for successful ERACS implementation and patient outcomes.
