Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) in clinical practice

Abstract

‘Enhanced Recovery After Surgery’ (ERAS) protocols are an evidence-based, multidisciplinary system for patient care that— since its emergence in 2001— has shown remarkable efficacy in reducing surgical complications, shortening length of stay (LoS), and the incidence of hospital re-admission. Unfortunately, wide spread acceptance of ERAS has been slow, as it conflicts with some traditional perioperative care practices. However, with protocol compliance >70%, studies have shown significant reduction in mortality and postsurgical complications, with 30-50% reduction in LoS and approximately a 50% reduction in complications.