title: Optimizing cost and short-term outcomes for elderly patients in laparoscopic colonic surgery Eight years of experience with Enhanced Recovery After Surgery in patients with colon cancer: Impact of measures to improve adherence. Fast-track in open intestinal surgery: prospective randomized study (Clinical Trials Gov Identifier no. NCT00123456). Adherence to the enhanced recovery after surgery protocol and outcomes after colorectal cancer surgery. Spinal analgesia for laparoscopic colonic resection using an enhanced recovery after surgery programme: better analgesia, but no benefits on postoperative recovery: a randomized controlled trial. Randomized clinical trial of multimodal optimization of surgical care in patients undergoing major colonic resection A comparison of laparoscopically assisted and open colectomy for colon cancer. Implementing Fast-Track Protocol for Colorectal Surgery: A Prospective Randomized Clinical Trial Detailed evaluation of functional recovery following laparoscopic or open surgery for colorectal cancer within an enhanced recovery programme Efficacy of transversus abdominis plane blocks in laparoscopic colorectal resections Laparoscopic surgery versus open surgery for colon cancer: short-term outcomes of a randomised trial. Enhanced Recovery Program following Colorectal Resection in the Elderly Patient Patient education videos for elective colorectal surgery: results of a randomized controlled trial Fast-track colorectal surgery: protocol adherence influences postoperative outcomes Two-day Hospital Stay After Laparoscopic Colorectal Surgery under an Enhanced Recovery after Surgery (ERAS) Pathway Fast-Track Surgery Improves Postoperative Clinical Recovery and Immunity After Elective Surgery for Colorectal Carcinoma: Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial The influence of preoperative nutritional status on the outcomes of an enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) programme for colorectal cancer surgery The impact of intravenous fluid administration on complication rates in bowel surgery within an enhanced recovery protocol: a randomized controlled trial Predicting who will fail early discharge after laparoscopic colorectal surgery with an established enhanced recovery pathway Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) Program Attenuates Stress and Accelerates Recovery in Patients After Radical Resection for Colorectal Cancer: A Prospective Randomized Controlled Trial Effect of salt and water balance on recovery of gastrointestinal function after elective colonic resection: a randomised controlled trial Using Frailty to Predict Who Will Fail Early Discharge After Laparoscopic Colorectal Surgery With an Established Recovery Pathway Multicenter randomized controlled trial of conventional versus laparoscopic surgery for colorectal cancer within an enhanced recovery programme: EnROL. Randomized clinical trial of multimodal optimization and standard perioperative surgical care A clinical pathway to accelerate recovery after colonic resection. Laparoscopy in Combination with Fast Track Multimodal Management is the Best Perioperative Strategy in Patients Undergoing Colonic Surgery: A Randomized Clinical Trial (LAFA-study) Prehabilitation versus Rehabilitation: A Randomized Control Trial in Patients Undergoing Colorectal Resection for Cancer The influence of peri-operative factors for accelerated discharge following laparoscopic colorectal surgery when combined with an enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) pathway. Increased Risk for Complications After Colorectal Surgery With Selective Cyclo-oxygenase 2 Inhibitor Etoricoxib Prospective, Randomized, Controlled Trial Between a Pathway of Controlled Rehabilitation With Early Ambulation and Diet and Traditional Postoperative Care After Laparotomy and Intestinal Resection A Prospective Randomized Controlled Trial of Multimodal Perioperative Management Protocol in Patients Undergoing Elective Colorectal Resection for Cancer Comparison of Early Mobilization and Diet Rehabilitation Program With Conventional Care After Laparoscopic Colon Surgery: A Prospective Randomized Controlled Trial Cost-effectiveness of Laparoscopy in Rectal Cancer Intravenous Lidocaine Versus Thoracic Epidural Analgesia: A Randomized Controlled Trial in Patients Undergoing Laparoscopic Colorectal Surgery Using an Enhanced Recovery Program Enhanced recovery in major colorectal surgery: safety and efficacy in an unselected surgical population at a UK district general hospital. Predicting the unpredictable: comparing readmitted versus non-readmitted colorectal surgery patients. Discharge within 24 to 72 hours of colorectal surgery is associated with low readmission rates when using Enhanced Recovery Pathways. Guidelines for Perioperative Care in Elective Colonic Surgery: Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS®) Society Recommendations
abstract: Background Elderly patients often are regarded as high-risk for major abdominal surgery because of a lack of functional reserve and associated medical comorbidities . The goal of this study was to compare the cost of care and short-term outcomes of elderly and nonelderly patients undergoing laparoscopic colectomy .  Our hypothesis was that elderly patients managed with  laparoscopic colorectal surgery and an enhanced recovery protocol ( ERP ) can realize the same benefits of lower hospital length of stay ( LOS ) without increasing hospital costs or readmission rates . Methods Review of a prospect i ve data base identified all patients that underwent an elective laparoscopic colectomy from 2009 to 2012 . Patients were stratified into elderly ( ≥70 years old ) and nonelderly ( < 70 years old ) cohorts . The main outcome measures were discharge disposition , hospital costs , hospital LOS , and 30-day readmission rates between the laparoscopic and open groups . Results A total of 302 nonelderly ( 66 % ) and 153 elderly ( 34 % ) patients were included in the analysis . The elderly cohort had significantly higher comorbidities than the nonelderly group . There were no mortalities . Operative variables ( procedure time , blood loss , and intraoperative complications ) were similar . At discharge , significantly more elderly patients required temporary nursing or home care . There were no significant differences in short-term outcomes of LOS , 30-day readmission rates , or costs for the episode of care between the two groups . Conclusions Combining laparoscopic colectomy with an ERP is cost-effective and results in similar short-term outcomes for the elderly and nonelderly patients . Despite higher comorbidities , elderly patients realized the same benefits of shorter LOS with similar hospital costs and readmission rates BACKGROUND Perioperative treatment of patients with colorectal cancer according to the Enhanced Recovery After Surgery ( ERAS ) protocol has proven to reduce complications and duration of stay . However , strict adherence remains a challenge and the benefits may decrease with lower adherence . In this study , we report on 8 years of adherence to the ERAS protocol and its effect on postoperative outcome in patients with colon cancer . METHODS In 2006 , the ERAS protocol was introduced for treatment of colon cancer patients in the Medical Center Alkmaar , a large teaching hospital . Patients scheduled for elective colon cancer resection were included in this study . Adherence to ERAS items was monitored and along with clinical data prospect ively gathered in a data base . In 2011 , several measures to improve adherence were implemented . RESULTS In total , 816 patients were included .  Mean adherence rate was 73 % in 2006 and 2007 , 66 % in 2008 and 2009 , 63 % in 2010 and 2011 , and 82 % in 2012 and 2013 . There was a shorter duration of stay in the years with high adherence ( 5.7 days ) compared with the years with low adherence ( 7.3 days ; P < .001 ) . The ERAS items that were the strongest predictors for a shorter duration of stay were no nasogastric tube , early mobilization , early oral nutrition , early removal of epidural , early removal of catheter , and nonopioid oral analgesia . CONCLUSION It is possible to improve adherence to the ERAS protocol and related outcomes with specific measures . Adherence to the ERAS protocol was related inversely to duration of stay . Only postoperative items of the ERAS protocol were predictive for a shorter duration of stay . Keeping adherence optimal remains an ongoing challenge that requires repeated training and dedicated personnel BACKGROUND Studies have shown the value of using fast-track postoperative recovery . St and ard procedures ( non-fast-track strategies ) remain in common use for perioperative care . Few prospect i ve reports exist on the outcome of fast-tracking in Central Europe . The aim of our study was to assess the effect and safety of our own fast-track protocol with regard to the postoperative period after open bowel resection . PATIENTS AND METHODS One hundred and five patients with ASA score I-II scheduled for open intestinal resection in the period April 2005-December 2007 were r and omly selected for the fast-track group ( FT ) and non-fast-track group ( non-FT ) . A design ed protocol was used in the FT group with the emphasis on an interdisciplinary approach . The control group ( non-FT ) was treated by st and ard established procedures .  Postoperative pain , rehabilitation , gastrointestinal functions , postoperative complications , and post-op length of stay were recorded . RESULTS Of 105 patients , 103 were statistically analyzed . Patients in the FT group ( n=51 ) and non-FT group ( n=52 ) did not differ in age , surgical diagnosis , or procedure . The fast-track procedure led to significantly better control of postoperative pain and faster restoration of GI functions ( bowel movement after 1.3 days vs. 3.1 , p<0.001 ) . Food tolerance was significantly better in the FT group and rehabilitation was also faster . Hospital stay was shorter in the FT group - median seven days ( 95 % CI 7.0 - 7.7 ) versus ten days ( 95 % CI 9.5 - 11.3 ) in non-FT ( p<0.001 ) . Postoperative complications within 30 postoperative days were also significantly lower in the FT group ( 21.6 vs. 48.1 % , p=0.003 ) . There were no deaths and no patients were readmitted within 30 days . CONCLUSIONS Following the FT protocol helped to reduce frequency of postoperative complications and reduced hospital stay . We conclude that the FT strategy is safe and effective in improving postoperative outcomes OBJECTIVES To study the impact of different adherence levels to the enhanced recovery after surgery ( ERAS ) protocol and the effect of various ERAS elements on outcomes following major surgery . DESIGN Single-center prospect i ve cohort study before and after reinforcement of an ERAS protocol . Comparisons were made both between and across periods using multivariate logistic regression . All clinical data ( 114 variables ) were prospect ively recorded . SETTING Ersta Hospital , Stockholm , Sweden . PATIENTS Nine hundred fifty-three consecutive patients with colorectal cancer : 464 patients treated in 2002 to 2004 and 489 in 2005 to 2007 . MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES The association between improved adherence to the ERAS protocol and the incidence of postoperative symptoms , complications , and length of stay following major colorectal cancer surgery was analyzed . RESULTS Following an overall increase in preoperative and perioperative adherence to the ERAS protocol from 43.3 % in 2002 to 2004 to 70.6 % in 2005 to 2007 , both postoperative complications ( odds ratio , 0.73 ; 95 % confidence interval , 0.55 - 0.98 ) and symptoms ( odds ratio , 0.53 ; 95 % confidence interval , 0.40 - 0.70 ) declined significantly . Restriction of intravenous fluid and use of a preoperative carbohydrate drink were major independent predictors . Across periods , the proportion of adverse postoperative outcomes ( 30-day morbidity , symptoms , and readmissions ) was significantly reduced with increasing adherence to the ERAS protocol ( > 70 % , > 80 % , and > 90 % ) compared with low ERAS adherence ( < 50 % ) . CONCLUSION Improved adherence to the st and ardized multimodal ERAS protocol is significantly associated with improved clinical outcomes following major colorectal cancer surgery , indicating a dose-response relationship BACKGROUND This study was undertaken to determine the impact of an intrathecal mixture of bupivacaine and morphine , when compared with systemic morphine , on the quality of postoperative analgesia and other outcomes in the context of the enhanced recovery after surgery ( ERAS ) programme for laparoscopic colonic resection . METHODS Fifty patients undergoing general anaesthesia were r and omly allocated  to receive either a spinal mixture of bupivacaine and morphine followed by oral oxycodone ( spinal group ) or patient-controlled analgesia ( PCA group ) . The primary outcome was consumption of opioids during the first three postoperative days . Secondary outcomes were pain scores , return of bowel function and dietary intake , readiness to hospital discharge , and length of hospital stay . RESULTS Postoperative opioid consumption in the spinal group was significantly less over the first three postoperative days ( P<0.001 ) . The quality of analgesia at rest in the first 24 h was better in the spinal group ( P<0.005 ) . Excessive sedation and respiratory depression were reported in two elderly patients with spinal analgesia . There were no differences between the two groups in other outcomes ( return of bowel function and dietary intake , readiness to hospital discharge , and length of hospital stay ) . CONCLUSIONS When ERAS programme is used for laparoscopic colonic resection , an intrathecal mixture of bupivacaine and morphine was associated with less postoperative opioid consumption , but has no other advantages over systemic opioids The aim of this trial was to compare  multimodal optimization  with  conventional perioperative management  in a consecutive series of patients undergoing a wide range of colorectal procedures BACKGROUND Minimally invasive , laparoscopically assisted surgery was first considered in 1990 for patients undergoing colectomy for cancer . Concern that this approach would compromise survival by failing to achieve a proper oncologic resection or adequate staging or by altering patterns of recurrence ( based on frequent reports of tumor recurrences within surgical wounds ) prompted a controlled trial evaluation . METHODS We conducted a noninferiority trial at 48 institutions and r and omly assigned 872 patients with adenocarcinoma of the colon to undergo open or laparoscopically assisted colectomy performed by credentialed surgeons . The median follow-up was 4.4 years . The primary end point was the time to tumor recurrence . RESULTS At three years , the rates of recurrence were similar in the two groups--16 percent among patients in the group that underwent laparoscopically assisted surgery and 18 percent among patients in the open-colectomy group ( two-sided P=0.32 ; hazard ratio for recurrence , 0.86 ; 95 percent confidence interval , 0.63 to 1.17 ) . Recurrence rates in surgical wounds were less than 1 percent in both groups ( P=0.50 ) . The overall survival rate at three years was also very similar in the two groups ( 86 percent in the laparoscopic-surgery group and 85 percent in the open-colectomy group ; P=0.51 ; hazard ratio for death in the laparoscopic-surgery group , 0.91 ; 95 percent confidence interval , 0.68 to 1.21 ) , with no significant difference between groups in the time to recurrence or overall survival for patients with any stage of cancer . Perioperative recovery was faster in the laparoscopic-surgery group than in the open-colectomy group , as reflected by a shorter median hospital stay ( five days vs. six days , P<0.001 ) and briefer use of parenteral narcotics ( three days vs. four days , P<0.001 ) and oral analgesics ( one day vs. two days , P=0.02 ) . The rates of intraoperative complications , 30-day postoperative mortality , complications at discharge and 60 days , hospital readmission , and reoperation were very similar between groups . CONCLUSIONS In this multi-institutional study , the rates of recurrent cancer were similar after laparoscopically assisted colectomy and open colectomy , suggesting that the laparoscopic approach is an acceptable alternative to open surgery for colon cancer Background Fast-track protocol s are followed by an enhanced recovery , early return to bowel function and to complete nutrition , and a reduced hospital stay . Our study was design ed to implement fast-track protocol in our university hospital . Methods The 96 consecutive patients with colorectal neoplasm included in the study were r and omized in two equal groups : group 1 ( FT ) included patients undergoing colorectal surgery in a fast-track protocol , and group 2 ( C ) included patients undergoing colorectal surgery with a conventional care protocol .  As with other fast-track protocol s , our protocol included carbohydrate fluids load before operation , early mobilization and oral feeding , regular prokinetics , and multimodal postoperative analgesia .  Time to restoration of bowel function , to complete mobilization and feeding , length of hospital stay , and incidence of complications and readmissions were monitored . Results Time to mobilization , restoring of bowel function , and complete oral feeding were significantly shorter with fast-track protocol ( p = 0.001 , p = 0.042 , and p = 0.01 , respectively ) . Hospital stay also was shorter in the fast-track group ( p = 0.001 ) . The incidence of complications did not significantly differ with the study groups . Conclusions In our study , fast-track protocol result ed in a shorter time to mobilization , complete feeding , and discharge from hospital . Fast-track protocol did not increase the incidence of complications . However , we consider that our data require further confirmation with powered multicenter national studies Background and aims Evidence demonstrating improved short-term outcomes with laparoscopic surgery compared with open surgery for colorectal cancer is accumulating . In addition , programmes optimising peri-operative care for major abdominal surgery are becoming widespread . Evaluating laparoscopic surgery and enhanced recovery programmes usually focuses on short-term recovery . The aim of this study was to compare recovery after laparoscopic and open surgery for colorectal cancer up to 1 year post-operatively , using a combination of self-report and observer data . Patients / Methods From January 2002 to March 2004 , 62 patients were r and omised ( 2:1 ) to receive laparoscopic ( n = 43 ) or open surgery ( n = 19 ) within an enhanced recovery programme .  Functional outcomes up to 1 year were assessed using interview-administered question naires . Results / Findings Question naire and health-related quality of life data were obtained in over 85 % of patients . Patients undergoing laparoscopic surgery  felt fully recovered and resumed driving more quickly than those having open surgery ( p = 0.016 and p = 0.048 respectively ) . Fifty-eight percent of patients having open surgery felt fully recovered by 12 months versus 88 % of laparoscopic patients .Interpretation/ Conclusion Within an enhanced recovery programme , patients undergoing laparoscopic surgery  recovered more quickly than after open resection . Both approaches however , were associated with slow recovery despite a relatively short hospital stay Background The increasing use of laparoscopic techniques for colorectal resections means that the issue of postoperative analgesia needs to be reassessed . This nonr and omized comparative study aim ed to assess the efficacy of the transversus abdominis plane ( TAP ) block in laparoscopic colorectal resections . Methods Prospect ively collected data from consecutive patients undergoing laparoscopic colorectal resections were used . Analgesia usage and outcome data for patients who had a TAP block and a postoperative morphine patient-controlled analgesia pump ( PCA ) were compared with those for patients who had a PCA alone . Results Data for 74 patients were used in the final analysis ( 40 TAP/PCA and 34 PCA alone ) . There was a significant reduction in overall intravenous opiate use in the TAP/PCA group ( 31.3 vs. 51.8 mg ; P = 0.03 ) . The TAP/PCA group showed a slight trend toward a shorter hospital stay ( 3 vs. 4 days ; P = 0.17 ) but no difference in postoperative complications or any other outcome measure . There was no procedure-related morbidity relating to the use of TAP blocks . Conclusions It appears that TAP blocks reduce postoperative analgesia use of patients undergoing laparoscopic colorectal resections within an enhanced recovery program , and this may have an impact on their postoperative hospital length of stay BACKGROUND The safety and short-term benefits of laparoscopic colectomy for cancer remain debatable . The multicentre COLOR ( COlon cancer Laparoscopic or Open Resection ) trial was done to assess the safety and benefit of laparoscopic resection compared with open resection for curative treatment of patients with cancer of the right or left colon . METHODS 627 patients were r and omly assigned to laparoscopic surgery and 621 patients to open surgery .  The primary endpoint was cancer-free survival 3 years after surgery . Secondary outcomes were short-term morbidity and mortality , number of positive resection margins , local recurrence , port-site or wound-site recurrence , metastasis , overall survival , and blood loss during surgery . Analysis was by intention to treat . Here , clinical characteristics , operative findings , and postoperative outcome are reported . FINDINGS Patients assigned laparoscopic resection had less blood loss compared with those assigned open resection ( median 100 mL [ range 0 - 2700 ] vs 175 mL [ 0 - 2000 ] , p<0.0001 ) , although laparoscopic surgery lasted 30 min longer than did open surgery ( p<0.0001 ) . Conversion to open surgery was needed for 91 ( 17 % ) patients undergoing the laparoscopic procedure . Radicality of resection as assessed by number of removed lymph nodes and length of resected oral and aboral bowel did not differ between groups . Laparoscopic colectomy was associated with earlier recovery of bowel function ( p<0.0001 ) , need for fewer analgesics , and with a shorter hospital stay ( p<0.0001 ) compared with open colectomy .  Morbidity and mortality 28 days after colectomy did not differ between groups . INTERPRETATION Laparoscopic surgery can be used for safe and radical resection of cancer in the right , left , and sigmoid colon Background The enhanced recovery program ( ERP ) aims to reduce the metabolic response to surgery , hastening recovery and shortening hospital stay . Concerns exist regarding morbidity and hospital stay in elderly patients . The present study aim ed to compare the outcomes and compliance of elderly patients managed by an ERP protocol with a younger group . Methods A review was performed of a prospect i ve data base of patients undergoing colorectal resection managed under the ERP protocol between 2005 and 2010 . Patients were grouped into < 80 years and ≥80 years , and perioperative data were collated . The postoperative outcomes were compared with the goals set out by the ERP protocol . Results A total of 688 patients were included , 558 were < 80 years ( median : 66 years ; range : 17–79 years ) and 130 were ≥80 years ( median : 83 years ; range : 80–95 years ) . Some 96 % of operations were planned laparoscopically . Median total length of hospital stay was 6 days ( range : 1–108 days ) for the < 80 year group and 8 days ( range : 1–167 days ; P 0.363 ) for the elderly group , with a 30 day readmission rate of 8.6 % for the population and no significant differences between groups . The 30 day mortality was 5 % , with a significant difference between the two groups ( P < 0.0001 ) . Differences in protocol adherence were identified in the discontinuation of intravenous fluids , catheter removal , and early mobilization . Conclusions An enhanced recovery program is feasible for colorectal surgery patients ≥80 years of age , with similar compliance as the younger group to some aspects of the protocol and an acceptable readmission rate . Attention to improving compliance in the postoperative phase is necessary , particularly in such high-risk patients , as such improvement may reduce the morbidity and mortality Recent advances in surgery have focused on peri‐operative care and interventions to improve outcome following surgery . Psychological preparation has a positive impact on recovery and incorporates a range of strategies with dissemination of information as one of the key elements . Information can be given verbally , through printed information or through use of a video . Traditionally , reliance has been on the use of written material as an adjunct to patient education in clinic . The current study is a r and omized trial on the use of video education in patients undergoing elective colorectal resection within an enhanced recovery programme Purpose This single-center prospect i ve cohort study , conducted outside of a clinical trial , tried to identify the importance of each fast-track surgery procedure and protocol adherence level on clinical outcomes after colorectal surgery . Methods From a prospect ively maintained data base , 606 patients who underwent elective laparoscopic or open colorectal resection within a well established fast-track surgery ( FT ) protocol , between 2005 and 2011 , were identified . Univariate and multivariate analysis were performed to assess the relationship between each FT procedure with an adherence rate < 100 % and the outcome variables ( length of stay — LOS , 30-day morbidity and readmission rate ) . Patients were divided into four adherence level groups to FT procedures —100 % , 85–95 % , 70–80 % , and < 65 % . Each adherence group was compared with the other groups to evaluate differences in clinical outcome variables . Results Group comparisons revealed that higher levels of FT protocol adherence corresponded to significantly improved LOS and morbidity rates . Readmission rates were only significantly different between the full fast-track pathway and the less implemented groups . Multivariate analyses revealed that the fast removal of bladder catheter positively influenced length of stay ( p < 0.0001 ) and 30-day morbidity ( p < 0.0001 ) . Laparoscopy surgery , no drain positioning and enforced mobilization improved LOS ( p = 0.027 , p < 0.0001 , p = 0.002 , respectively ) . Early solid feeding improved LOS ( p < 0.0001 ) , morbidity ( p < 0.0001 ) and readmission rate ( p = 0.011 ) . Conclusion Postoperative outcomes after colorectal surgery are directly proportional to FT protocol adherence . The early removal of the bladder catheter and early postoperative solid feeding independently influenced the length of hospital stay and 30-day morbidity rates Background The present study aims to examine the feasibility and safety of a two-day hospital stay after  laparoscopic colorectal resection ( LCR )  under an enhanced recovery after surgery ( ERAS ) pathway . Methods Between 2003 and 2010 , 882 consecutive patients undergoing LCR were analyzed . Patients were grouped and analyzed according to whether their hospital stay was 2 days ( group A ) or longer ( group B ) . Demographic , surgical , and postoperative data were compared . To identify independent predictive factors related to a short hospital stay , a multivariate analysis was also performed . Results Group A represented 10.3 % of this series ( 91 patients ) . There were no differences regarding age , gender , BMI , ASA , and previous abdominal surgeries between groups . Group A had a lower incidence of rectal cancer and anterior resections than group B ( 6.6 vs. 17.7 % [ p = 0.006 ] and 14.3 vs. 23.4 % [ p = 0.048 ] ) , respectively , and a lower mean operative time ( 170 min vs. 192 min ; p = 0.002 ) . Group A had a lower overall morbidity rate than group B ( 5.5 vs. 16.9 % ; p = 0.004 ) and a lower incidence of surgery-related complications ( 5.5 vs. 14.9 % ; p = 0.001 ) . The overall conversion rate was 10 % ( only one patient in group A required conversion ) , and the difference in conversion rate between groups was statistically significant ( 1.2 vs. 10.7 % ; p = 0.003 ) . Group A had a lower readmission rate ( 0 vs. 4.9 % ; p = 0.089 ) . Multivariate analysis showed that conversion , postoperative morbidity , and rectal prolapse were independently associated with the length of hospital stay . Conclusions A two-day hospital stay after LCR is safe and feasible under an ERAS pathway , without compromising the readmission or complication rate Background Few clinical studies or r and omized clinical trial results have reported the impact of fast-track surgery on human immunity . This study aim ed to investigate the clinical and immune impact of fast-track surgery in colorectal cancer patients undergoing elective open surgery . Methods A controlled r and omized clinical trial was conducted from November 2008 to January 2009 with a 1-month postdischarge follow-up . A total of 70 patients with colorectal carcinoma requiring colorectal resection were r and omized into two groups : a fast-track group ( 35 cases ) and a conventional care group ( 35 cases ) . All included patients underwent elective open colorectal resection with combined tracheal intubation and general anesthesia .  Clinical parameters and markers of immune function were evaluated in both groups postoperatively . Results In all , 62 patients completed the study : 32 in the fast-track group and 30 in the conventional care group . Our findings revealed a significantly shorter postoperative hospital stay and faster return of gastrointestinal function in patients undergoing fast-track rehabilitation . In addition , we found a quicker response of white blood cells in the fast-track group than in the conventional care group . We also found that blood levels of globulin , immunoglobulin G , and complement 4 on postoperative day 3 were higher in the fast-track group than in the conventional care group . Conclusions Fast-track surgery accelerates clinical recovery and improves postoperative immunity after elective open surgery for colorectal carcinoma Background The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effects of preoperative nutritional status on the short-term outcomes of an enhanced recovery after surgery ( ERAS ) programme for colorectal cancer surgery . Methods This prospect i ve observational study included 149 patients who underwent elective resection of colorectal cancer with ERAS from January 2011 to January 2014 in a university hospital .  Subjective global assessment ( SGA ) was used to determine preoperative nutritional status . Primary outcomes included the length of postoperative stay , postoperative morbidity , gastrointestinal recovery , and 30-day readmission . Results The patients were divided into 3 groups according to the SGA classification . There were 96 patients ( 64.4 % ) in SGA-A ( well-nourished ) , 48 ( 32.2 % ) in SGA-B ( mild to moderately malnourished ) , and 5 ( 3.4 % ) in SGA-C ( severely malnourished ) . Patients in SGA-A had the median length of postoperative stay of 4 days ( range 2–23 ) , which was significantly shorter compared to SGA-B ( 5 days ; range 2–16 ; p < 0.01 ) and SGA-C ( 7 days ; range 4–17 ; p < 0.01 ) . The overall complication rates of SGA-A , SGA-B , and SGA-C patients were 11 , 31 % ( adjusted OR 3.76 ; 95 % CI 1.36–10.36 ; p < 0.01 ) and 40 % ( adjusted OR 2.15 ; 95 % CI 0.07–63.64 ; p = 0.66 ) . Mean time to resumption of normal diet and time to first defecation were 1.6 ± 1.3 and 2.2 ± 0.9 days in SGA-A , 2.6 ± 1.7 and 3.1 ± 1.6 days in SGA-B ( p < 0.01 compared to SGA-A ) and 3.2 ± 2.4 days and 2.6 ± 1.5 days in SGA-C ( p = 0.07 and p = 0.1 compared to SGA-A , respectively ) . No 30-day mortality occurred in any group . One patient in SGA-A ( 1 % ) , and 3 patients in SGA-B ( 6 % ) had unplanned 30-day re-admission ; p = 0.11 . Conclusions Within an ERAS programme for colorectal cancer surgery , malnourished patients were at risk for increased postoperative morbidity , delayed recovery of gastrointestinal function , and prolonged length of hospital stay A r and omized controlled trial was conducted to test the hypothesis that there is no difference in complications in patients receiving intravenous ( iv ) water and electrolyte  , based on either stroke volume or clinical indicators at bowel surgery Background Despite using laparoscopy and enhanced recovery pathways ( ERP ) , some patients are not ready for early discharge . The goal of this study was to identify predictors for patients who might fail early discharge , so that any defined factors might be addressed and optimized . Methods A prospect ively maintained data base was review ed for major elective laparoscopic colorectal surgical procedures . Cases were divided into day of discharge groups : ≤3 days and > 4 days . All followed a st and ardized ERP . Demographic and clinical data were compared using Student ’s paired t tests or Fisher ’s exact test , with p value < 0.05 statistically significant . Regression analysis was performed to identify significant variables . Results There were 275 ≤3 days patients and 273 > 4 days patients . There were significant differences between groups in body mass index ( p = 0.0123 ) , comorbidities ( p = 0.0062 ) , ASA class ( p = 0.0014 ) , operation time ( p < 0.001 ) , postoperative complications ( p < 0.001 ) , and 30-day reoperation rate ( p = 0.0004 ) . There were no significant differences for intraoperative complications ( p = 0.724 ) , readmissions ( p = 0.187 ) , or mortality rate ( p = 1.00 ) . Significantly more patients were discharged directly home in the ≤3-days cohort . Using logistic regression , every hour of operating time increased the risk of length of stay > 4 days by 2.35 % . Conclusions Elective colorectal surgery patients with longer operation times and more comorbidities are more likely to fail early discharge . These patients should have different expectations of the ERP , as an expected 1- to 3-day stay may not be achievable . By identifying patients at risk for failing early discharge , re sources and postoperative support can be better allocated and patients better informed about likely recovery Background The aim of this trial was to compare the Enhanced Recovery After Surgery ( ERAS ) program with conventional perioperative management in patients who underwent radical resection for colorectal cancer . Methods A combination of evidence -based and consensus methodology was used to develop the ERAS protocol . Five hundred ninety-seven consecutive patients who underwent elective colorectal resection were r and omized to either the ERAS ( n = 299 ) or the  control group ( n = 298 ) . Outcomes relating to nutrition and metabolism index , stress index , and recovery index were measured and recorded . Results Demographic and operative data were similar between the two groups . Patients in the ERAS group showed improved nutritional status when compared with those of the control group . On postoperative day ( POD ) 1 , the HOMA-IR ( insulin resistance index ) of the ERAS group was lower than that of the control group ( p < 0.001 ) . The cortisol level of the control group was elevated on both POD 1 ( p = 0.007 ) and POD 5 ( p = 0.002 ) compared to the preoperative level . However , the cortisol level of the ERAS group was not increased until POD 5 ( p = 0.001 ) . Reduced levels of TNF-α , IL-1β , IL-6 , and IFN-γ in the ERAS group indicated less postoperative stress responses . In addition , ERAS was associated with accelerated recovery of gastrointestinal function . The postoperative length of stay ( p < 0.001 ) and expense ( p < 0.001 ) for the ERAS group were reduced in comparison to the controls . Twenty-eight cases in the control group and twenty-nine in the ERAS group suffered complications , which was not significantly different . Conclusion The ERAS protocol attenuates the surgical stress response and accelerates postoperative recovery without compromising patient safety BACKGROUND Low concentrations of albumin in serum and long gastric emptying times have been returned to normal in dogs by salt and water restriction , or a high protein intake . We aim ed to determine the effect of salt and water balance on recovery of gastrointestinal function after elective colonic resection in human beings . METHODS We r and omly allocated ten patients to receive postoperative intravenous fluids in accordance present hospital practice ( > or = 3 L water and 154 mmol sodium per day ) and ten to receive a restricted intake ( < or = 2 L water and 77 mmol sodium per day ) . All patients had no disease other than colonic cancer . The primary endpoint was solid and liquid-phase gastric emptying time , measured by dual isotope radionuclide scintigraphy on the fourth postoperative day . Secondary endpoints included time to first bowel movement and length of postoperative hospital stay . Analysis was by intention to treat . FINDINGS Median solid and liquid phase gastric emptying times ( T(50 ) ) on the fourth postoperative day were significantly longer in the st and ard group than in the restricted group ( 175 vs 72.5 min , difference 56 [ 95 % CI 12 - 132 ] , p=0.028 ; and 110 vs 73.5 min , 52 [ 9 - 95 ] , p=0.017 , respectively ) . Median passage of flatus was 1 day later ( 4 vs 3 days , 2 [ 1 - 2 ] , p=0.001 ) ; median passage of stool 2.5 days later ( 6.5 vs 4 days , 3 [ 2 - 4 ] , p=0.001 ) ; and median postoperative hospital stay 3 days longer ( 9 vs 6 days , 3 [ 1 - 8 ] , p=0.001 ) in the st and ard group than in the restricted group . One patient in the restricted group developed hypokalaemia , whereas seven patients in the st and ard group had side-effects or complications ( p=0.01 ) . INTERPRETATION Positive salt and water balance sufficient to cause a 3 kg weight gain after surgery delays return of gastrointestinal function and prolongs hospital stay in patients undergoing elective colonic resection BACKGROUND : Despite laparoscopy and enhanced recovery pathways , some patients do not attain early discharge . Frailty is generally accepted as a marker of increased risk , complications , and mortality . Frailty may have the potential to identify patient outcomes . PURPOSE : The aim of this study was to evaluate frailty as a predictor of patients who might fail early discharge . SETTING : This study was conducted at a tertiary referral center . DESIGN : This was a case-matched study . PATIENTS : Elective abdominal laparoscopic colorectal cases from 2009 to 2012 were selected . METHODS : Review of a prospect i ve data base matched all cases with a postoperative day of discharge of ⩽3 days to a > 3 day of discharge cohort . All patients followed a st and ardized enhanced recovery  pathway . STATISTICAL ANALYSIS : Categorical and ordinal variables were analyzed with the Student t test or Fisher exact test , and correspondence analysis evaluated the relationship between length of stay and the Modified Frailty Index . MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE : The primary outcome measure was the relationship between length of stay and the Modified Frailty Index . RESULTS : There were 464 ⩽3 day and 388 > 3 day patients . The groups were similar in demographics and comorbidities . There were significant differences in the Modified Frailty Index ( p < 0.01 ) , operative time ( p < 0.01 ) , postoperative complications ( p < 0.01 ) , 30-day readmissions ( p = 0.03 ) , and 30-day reoperation rate ( p < 0.01 ) . Significantly more patients were discharged home in the ⩽3 day cohort . Correspondence analysis demonstrated a higher Modified Frailty Index was indicative of longer length of stay . A Modified Frailty Index of 0 was strongly related to a length of stay 0 to 3 days , and a Modified Frailty Index of 2 was strongly related to a 8- to 14-day stay . LIMITATIONS This was a single-center study performed on a retrospective data set . CONCLUSIONS : Patients undergoing elective colorectal surgery with a higher Modified Frailty Index were more likely not to attain early discharge . Despite similar demographics , the Modified Frailty Index could discriminate between patient outcomes , and correlated with longer operating times , length of stay , and readmissions . By using a prospect i ve score to identify patients at risk for not achieving early discharge preoperatively , re sources and postoperative support can be better allocated PURPOSE Laparoscopic resection and a multimodal approach known as an enhanced recovery program ( ERP ) have been major changes in colorectal perioperative care that have improved clinical outcomes for colorectal cancer resection . EnROL ( Enhanced Recovery Open Versus Laparoscopic ) is a multicenter r and omized controlled trial examining whether the benefits of laparoscopy still exist when open surgery is optimized within an ERP . PATIENTS AND METHODS Adults with colorectal cancer suitable for elective resection were r and omly assigned at a ratio of 1:1 to  laparoscopic or open surgery within an ERP , stratified by center , cancer site ( colon v rectum ) , and age group ( < 66 v 66 - 75 v > 75 years ) using minimization . The primary outcome was physical fatigue at 1 month postsurgery . Secondary outcomes included hospital stay , complications , other patient-reported outcomes ( PROs ) , and physical function . Patients and outcome assessors were blinded until 7 days postsurgery or discharge if earlier . Central independent and blinded pathologic assessment of surgical quality was undertaken . RESULTS A total of 204 patients ( laparoscopy , n=103 ; open surgery , n=101 ) were recruited from 12 UK centers from July 2008 to April 2012 .  One-month physical fatigue scores were similar in both groups ( mean : laparoscopy , 12.28 ; 95 % CI , 11.37 to 13.19 v open surgery , 12.05 ; 95 % CI , 11.14 to 12.96 ; adjusted mean difference , -0.23 ; 95 % CI , -1.52 to 1.07 ) . Median total hospital stay was significantly shorter after laparoscopic surgery ( median : laparoscopy , 5 ; interquartile range [ IQR ] , 4 to 9 v open surgery , 7 ; IQR , 5 to 11 days ; P=.033 ) . There were no differences in other secondary outcomes or in specimen quality after central pathologic review . CONCLUSION In patients treated by experienced surgeons within an ERP , physical fatigue and other PROs were similar in both groups , but laparoscopic surgery significantly reduced length of hospital stay Multimodal optimization of surgical care has been associated with reduced hospital stay and improved physical function . The aim of this r and omized trial was to compare multimodal optimization with st and ard care in patients undergoing colonic resection OBJECTIVE To investigate the feasibility of a 48-hour postoperative stay program after colonic resection . SUMMARY BACKGROUND DATA Postoperative hospital stay after colonic resection is usually 6 to 12 days , with a complication rate of 10 % to 20 % . Limiting factors for early recovery include stress-induced organ dysfunction , paralytic ileus , pain , and fatigue . It has been hypothesized that an accelerated multimodal rehabilitation program with optimal pain relief , stress reduction with regional anesthesia , early enteral nutrition , and early mobilization may enhance recovery and reduce the complication rate . METHODS Sixty consecutive patients undergoing elective colonic resection  were prospect ively studied using a well-defined postoperative care program including continuous thoracic epidural analgesia and enforced early mobilization and enteral nutrition , and a planned 48-hour postoperative hospital stay . Postoperative follow-up was scheduled at 8 and 30 days . RESULTS Median age was 74 years , with 20 patients in ASA group III-IV . Normal gastrointestinal function ( defecation ) occurred within 48 hours in 57 patients , and the median hospital stay was 2 days , with 32 patients staying 2 days after surgery . There were no cardiopulmonary complications . The readmission rate was 15 % , including two patients with anastomotic dehiscence ( one treated conservatively , one with colostomy ) ; other readmissions required only short-term observation . CONCLUSION A multimodal rehabilitation program may significantly reduce the postoperative hospital stay in high-risk patients undergoing colonic resection . Such a program may also reduce postoperative ileus and cardiopulmonary complications . These results may have important implication s for the care of patients after colonic surgery and in the future assessment of open versus laparoscopic colonic resection Objective : To investigate which perioperative treatment , ie , laparoscopic or open surgery combined with fast track ( FT ) or st and ard care , is the optimal approach for patients undergoing segmental resection for colon cancer . Summary Background Data : Important developments in elective colorectal surgery are the introduction of laparoscopy and implementation of FT care , both focusing on faster recovery . Methods : In a 9-center trial , patients eligible for segmental colectomy were r and omized to laparoscopic or open colectomy , and to FT or st and ard care  , result ing in 4 treatment groups . Primary outcome was total postoperative hospital stay ( THS ) . Secondary outcomes were postoperative hospital stay ( PHS ) , morbidity , reoperation rate , readmission rate , in-hospital mortality , quality of life at 2 and 4 weeks , patient satisfaction and in-hospital costs .  Four hundred patients were required to find a minimum difference of 1 day in hospital stay . Results : Median THS in the laparoscopic/FT group was 5 ( interquar-tile range : 4–8 ) days ; open/FT 7 ( 5–11 ) days ; laparoscopic/st and ard 6 ( 4.5–9.5 ) days , and open/st and ard 7 ( 6–13 ) days ( P < 0.001 ) . Median PHS in the laparoscopic/FT group was 5 ( 4–7 ) days ; open/FT 6 ( 4.5–10 ) days ; laparoscopic/st and ard 6 ( 4–8.5 ) days and open/st and ard 7 ( 6–10.5 ) days ( P < 0.001 ) . Secondary outcomes did not differ significantly among the groups . Regression analysis showed that laparoscopy was the only independent predictive factor to reduce hospital stay and morbidity . Conclusions : Optimal perioperative treatment for patients requiring segmental colectomy for colon cancer is laparoscopic resection embedded in a FT program . If open surgery is applied , it is preferentially done in FT care . This study was registered under NTR222 ( www.trialregister.nl ) Background : The preoperative period ( prehabilitation ) may represent a more appropriate time than the postoperative period to implement an intervention . The impact of prehabilitation on recovery of function al exercise capacity was thus studied in patients undergoing colorectal resection for cancer . Methods : A parallel-arm single-blind superiority r and omized controlled trial was conducted . Seventy-seven patients were r and omized to receive either prehabilitation ( n = 38 ) or rehabilitation ( n = 39 ) . Both groups received a home-based intervention of moderate aerobic and resistance exercises , nutritional counseling with protein supplementation , and relaxation exercises initiated either 4 weeks before surgery ( prehabilitation ) or immediately after surgery ( rehabilitation ) , and continued for 8 weeks after surgery . Patients were managed with an enhanced recovery pathway . Primary outcome was functional exercise capacity measured using the vali date d 6-min walk test . Results : Median duration of prehabilitation was 24.5 days . While awaiting surgery , functional walking capacity increased ( ≥20 m ) in a higher proportion of the prehabilitation group compared with the rehabilitation group ( 53 vs. 15 % , adjusted P = 0.006 ) . Complication rates and duration of hospital stay were similar . The difference between baseline and 8-week 6-min walking test was significantly higher in the prehabilitation compared with the rehabilitation group ( + 23.7 m [ SD , 54.8 ] vs. −21.8 m [ SD , 80.7 ] ; mean difference 45.4 m [ 95 % CI , 13.9 to 77.0 ] ) . A higher proportion of the prehabilitation group were also recovered to or above baseline exercise capacity at 8 weeks compared with the rehabilitation group ( 84 vs. 62 % , adjusted P = 0.049 ) . Conclusion : Meaningful changes in postoperative functional exercise capacity can be achieved with a prehabilitation program INTRODUCTION Laparoscopic surgery is well established in the modern management of colorectal disease . More recently , enhanced recovery after surgery ( ERAS ) protocol s have been introduced to further promote accelerated discharge and faster recovery . However , not all patients are suitable for early discharge . The purpose of this study was to evaluate the early outcomes of patients undergoing such a regime to determine which peri-operative factors may predict safe accelerated discharge . METHODS Data were prospect ively collected on consecutive patients undergoing laparoscopic colorectal surgery .  All patients followed the institution 's ERAS protocol and were discharged once specific criteria were fulfilled . Clinical characteristics and outcomes were compared between patients who were discharged before and after 72 h post-surgery . Thereafter , the peri-operative factors that were associated with delayed discharge were determined using a binary logistic model . RESULTS Three hundred patients were included in the analysis . The most common operation was laparoscopic anterior resection ( n = 123 , 41 % ) . Mean length of stay was 4.8 days ( st and ard deviation 5.9 ) , with 185 ( 62 % ) patients discharged within 72 h. Ten ( 3 % ) patients had a post-operative complication . Three independent predictors of delayed discharge were identified ; BMI ( OR 1.06 , 95%CI 1.01 - 1.11 ) , operation length ( OR 0.99 , 95%CI 0.98 - 0.99 ) and complications ( OR 16.26 , 95%CI 4.88 - 54.08 ) . CONCLUSIONS A combined approach of laparoscopic surgery and ERAS leads to reduced length of stay . This enables more than 60 % of patients to be discharged within 72 h. Increased BMI , duration of operation and complications post-operatively independently predict a longer length of stay BACKGROUND : Cyclo-oxygenase 2 inhibitors can be used for pain treatment after colorectal surgery . OBJECTIVE : The aim of this study was to investigate whether the use of etoricoxib has negative effects on the perioperative outcome in colorectal surgery . DESIGN : Complication data from an advanced medical data base system were sample d prospect ively , and patient records were review ed retrospectively . PATIENTS : All patients with elective colorectal surgery within an enhanced recovery after surgery protocol from 2008 to 2009 were selected . INTERVENTION : The nonr and omized use of perioperative etoricoxib treatment was compared with a control group . MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES : The primary outcome measured was the number of patients with postoperative complications according to the Dindo-Clavien classification . RESULTS : One hundred one patients received etoricoxib treatment , whereas 104 did not . The patient groups were very comparable . We observed a significant increase in the number of patients with postoperative complications with etoricoxib treatment ( 43 vs 30 patients ; 42.6 % vs 28.8 % , p = 0.041 ) due to an increase in patients with a major complication ( Dindo-Clavien complication grade III – V : 22.8 % vs 9.6 % , p = 0.01 ) . Patients with etoricoxib treatment and a complication needed a longer recovery period than patients with a complication in the control group ( 18 ( 17 ; 20 ) vs 14 ( 13 ; 15 ) days , p = 0.05 ) . We observed an increased level of postoperative serum creatinine with etoricoxib treatment ( 105 ( 98 ; 112 ) vs 82 ( 78 ; 85 ) , p = 0.003 ) , which was more pronounced in patients with a complication ( 141 ( 127 ; 155 ) vs 91 ( 83 ; 98 ) , p = 0.002 ; 25 vs 8 patients with serum creatinine > 100 & mgr;mol/L , p = 0.008 ) . In multivariate analysis , etoricoxib was identified as an independent risk factor for experiencing a major complication with a risk increase of approximately 2.5-fold ( p = 0.03 ) . LIMITATIONS : This study was limited by the nonr and omized use of perioperative etoricoxib and the retrospective nature of its review of patient records . CONCLUSIONS : Etoricoxib increased the number of patients with postoperative complications and should be considered carefully in colorectal surgery Abstract INTRODUCTION : In an era of dwindling hospital re sources and increasing medical costs , safe reduction in postoperative stay has become a major focus to optimize utilization of healthcare re sources . Although several protocol s have been reported to reduce postoperative stay , no Level I evidence exists for their use in routine clinical practice . METHODS : Sixty-four patients undergoing laparotomy and intestinal or rectal resection  were r and omly assigned to a pathway of controlled rehabilitation with early ambulation and diet or to traditional postoperative care .  Time to discharge from hospital , complication and readmission rates , pain level , quality of life , and patient satisfaction scores were determined at the time of discharge and at 10 and 30 days after surgery . Subgroups were defined to evaluate those who derived the optimal benefit from the protocol . RESULTS : Pathway patients spent less total time in the hospital after surgery ( 5.4 vs. 7.1 days ; P = 0.02 ) and less time in the hospital during the primary admission than traditional patients . Patients younger than 70 years old had greater benefits than the overall study group ( 5 vs. 7.1 days ; P = 0.01 ) . Patients treated by surgeons with the most experience with the pathway spent significantly less time in the hospital than did those whose surgeons were less experienced with the pathway ( P = 0.01 ) . There was no difference between pathway and traditional patients for readmission or complication rates , pain score , quality of life after surgery , or overall satisfaction with the hospital stay . CONCLUSIONS : Patients scheduled for a laparotomy and major intestinal or rectal resection  are suitable for management by a pathway of controlled rehabilitation with early ambulation and diet . Pathway patients have a shorter hospital stay , with no adverse effect on patient satisfaction , pain scores , or complication rates . Patients younger than 70 years of age derive the optimal benefit , and increased surgeon experience improves outcome Objective : A prospect i ve r and omized controlled trial ( RCT ) of multimodal perioperative management protocol in patients undergoing elective colorectal resection for cancer . Aims : This study evaluates the use of a multimodal package in colorectal cancer surgery in the context of an RCT . Methods : Patients for elective resection for colorectal cancer were offered trial entry . Participants were stratified by sex and requirement for a total mesorectal excision and central ly r and omized .  Multimodal patients received intravenous fluid restriction , unrestricted oral intake with prokinetic agents , early ambulation , and fixed regimen epidural analgesia . Control patients received intravenous fluids to prevent oliguria , restricted oral intake until return of bowel motility , and weaning regimen epidural analgesia . Adherence to both regimens was reinforced using a daily checklist and protocol guidance sheets . Discharge decision was made using preagreed criteria . The primary endpoint was postoperative stay , and achievement of independence milestones . Secondary endpoints were postoperative complications , readmission rates , and mortality . Analysis was by intention to treat . Results : Seventy patients were recruited . Approximately one fourth underwent TME . Median ages were similar ( 69.3 vs. 73.0 years ) . The median stay was significantly reduced in the multimodal group ( 5 vs. 7 days ; P < 0.001 , Mann-Whitney U test ) . Patients in the control arm were 2.5 times as likely to require a postoperative stay of more than 5 days . Patients in the multimodal group had less cardiorespiratory and anastomotic complications but more readmissions . There were 2 deaths , both controls . Conclusions : This RCT provides level 1b evidence that a multimodal management protocol can significantly reduce postoperative stay following colorectal cancer surgery . Morbidity and mortality are not increased PURPOSE : Although laparoscopic surgery may permit earlier recovery compared with open surgery , no published r and omized controlled trial has investigated the benefit of a multimodal rehabilitation program after laparoscopic colonic resection . This study aim ed to evaluate the efficacy of a rehabilitation program after laparoscopic colon surgery in the context of a r and omized controlled trial . METHODS : Between September 2007 and October 2009 , 100 patients who had received laparoscopic colon surgery  were selected for the study and r and omly assigned on a 1:1 basis to a rehabilitation program group with early mobilization and diet ( n = 46 ) or conventional care group ( n = 54 ) . The rehabilitation program group received early oral feeding , early ambulation , and regular laxative . The primary outcome was recovery time , measured with criteria of tolerable diet for 24 hours , safe ambulation , analgesic-free , and afebrile status without major complications . Secondary outcomes were postoperative hospital stay , complications , quality of life by Short Form 36 , pain by visual analog scale , and readmission . This study was registered ( ID number NCT00606944 , http://register . clinical trials.gov ) . RESULTS : Recovery time was shorter in the rehabilitation program group than in the conventional care group ( median ( interquartile range ) , 4 ( 3–5 ) d vs 6 ( 5–7 ) d , respectively ; P < .0001 ) . There was no difference in postoperative hospital stay between the 2 groups ( rehabilitation program group , 7 ( 6–8 ) d vs conventional care group , 8 ( 7–9 ) d ; P = .065 ) . There was no difference in complication rates between the rehabilitation program group and conventional care group ( 10.9 % vs 20.4 % , respectively ; P = .136 ) . Quality of life and pain were similar in both groups . There were no readmissions or mortality . CONCLUSIONS : A rehabilitation program with early mobilization and diet after laparoscopic colon surgery results in reduced recovery time without increased complications . These results suggest that a multimodal rehabilitation program may increase the short-term benefits after laparoscopic colon surgery BACKGROUND : There is an increasing trend to use laparoscopy for rectal cancer surgery . Although laparoscopic and open rectal resections appear oncologically equivalent , there is little information on the cost of different surgical approaches . With the current health care crisis and the importance of optimizing health care re sources and patient outcomes , the cost of care is an important factor . OBJECTIVE : The aim of this study was to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of laparoscopy in rectal cancer . DESIGN : This was a case-matched study . SETTING S : This study was conducted at a tertiary referral center . PATIENTS : Patients undergoing elective rectal cancer resection between 2007 and 2012 were selected . METHODS : A review of a prospect i ve data base for  elective laparoscopic rectal cancer resections  was performed . Laparoscopic cases were matched to open cases based on age , BMI , operative procedure , and diagnostic-related group . MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES : The primary outcomes measured were the cost of care , hospital length of stay , discharge disposition , readmission , postoperative complications , and mortality rates . RESULTS : Two hundred fifty-four matched cases were included in the analysis : 125 laparoscopic ( 49 % ) and 129 open ( 51 % ) . The cTNM stage ( p = 0.39 ) , tumor distance from the anal verge ( p = 0.07 ) , and rate of neoadjuvant therapy received between the laparoscopic and open groups were similar ( p = 0.12 ) . Operating time ( p < 0.01 ) and cost per operating room minute ( p = 0.04 ) were significantly higher in the open group . The groups were oncologically equivalent , based on circumferential resection margin ( p = 0.15 ) . The laparoscopic group had a significantly shorter length of stay ( p < 0.01 ) and lower total hospital cost ( p < 0.01 ) . Postoperative complications , 30-day readmission , reoperation , and mortality rates were similar . However , significantly more patients undergoing open resection required intensive care unit care ( p = 0.03 ) , skilled nursing ( p = 0.03 ) , or home care services ( p < 0.01 ) at discharge . LIMITATIONS : This investigation was conducted at a single institution and it is a retrospective study with potential bias . CONCLUSIONS : Laparoscopy is cost-effective for rectal cancer surgery , improving both health care expenditures and patient outcomes . For selected patients , laparoscopic rectal cancer resection can reduce length of stay , operating time , and re source utilization Background and Objective : Laparoscopy , thoracic epidural analgesia , and enhanced recovery program ( ERP ) have been shown to be the major elements to facilitate the postoperative recovery strategy in open colorectal surgery . This study compared the effect of intraoperative and postoperative intravenous ( IV ) lidocaine infusion with thoracic epidural analgesia on postoperative restoration of bowel function in patients undergoing laparoscopic colorectal resection using an ERP . Methods : Sixty patients scheduled for elective laparoscopic colorectal surgery were prospect ively r and omized to receive either thoracic epidural analgesia ( TEA group ) or IV lidocaine infusion ( IL group ) ( 1 mg/kg per hour ) with patient-controlled analgesia morphine for the first 48 hours after surgery . All patients received a similar ERP . The primary outcome was time to return of bowel function . Postoperative pain intensity , time out of bed , dietary intake , duration of hospital stay , and postoperative complications were also recorded . Results : Mean times and SD ( 95 % confidence interval ) to first flatus ( TEA , 24 [ SD , 11 ] [ 19 - 29 ] hrs vs IL , 27 [ SD , 12 ] [ 22 - 32 ] hrs ) and to bowel movements ( TEA , 44 ±19 [ 35 - 52 ] hrs vs IL , 43 [ SD , 20 ] [ 34 - 51 ] hrs ) were similar in both groups ( P = 0.887 ) . Thoracic epidural analgesia provided better analgesia in patients undergoing rectal surgery . Time out of bed and dietary intake were similar . Patients in the TEA and IL groups were discharged on median day 3 ( interquartile range , 3 - 4 days ) , P = 0.744 . Sixty percent of patients in both groups left the hospital on day 3 . Conclusions : Intraoperative and postoperative IV infusion of lidocaine in patients undergoing laparoscopic colorectal resection using an ERP had a similar impact on bowel function compared with thoracic epidural analgesia BACKGROUND Enhanced Recovery Programmes ( ERPs ) have been shown to benefit recovery following major surgery in selected centres and patient groups , but their wider applicability requires continued evaluation . The aims of this study were to assess the outcomes of the first 400 consecutive , non-selected patients , undergoing major elective colorectal surgery within an Enhanced Recovery programme at a UK District General hospital and to examine the effects of patient risk factors and operative approach on outcomes . METHODS Since September 2005 all patients undergoing major elective colon and rectal surgery at our hospital have been treated within an ERP and their data recorded prospect ively on a data base . Safety and efficacy outcomes for the first 400 patients were compared using SPSS v14.0 with both a retrospective , pre-ERP group ; and according to patient risk factors and operative approaches . RESULTS Median length of stays ( LOS ) reduced from 9 days ( IQR 7 - 11 ) to 6 days ( IQR 5 - 10 ) after introduction of the ERP ( p < 0.001 ) . No statistically significant differences in LOS were observed between elderly ( ≥80 years ) and younger patients or between different BMI groups . American Society of Anesthesiologists ( ASA ) grade 3 patients demonstrated significantly longer median LOS than those with ASA grade s 1 and 2 . Patients undergoing laparoscopic surgery  had median LOS of 6 days ( IQR 4 - 8 ) compared to 7 days ( IQR 5 - 10 ) for open procedures ( p < 0.001 ) . No differences in morbidity or mortality were observed between the groups . CONCLUSIONS Unselected application of an ERP in our unit has been associated with reductions in post-operative LOS . The ERP was safe and effective when applied to all our study patients independent of age and BMI . Despite LOS being longer in ASA grade 3 patients , application of the ERP to this higher risk group was not associated with significantly increased morbidity or mortality . Laparoscopic surgery result ed in additional modest reductions in LOS compared to open surgery within the ERP BACKGROUND To evaluate  readmissions  to determine predictors and patterns of readmission . METHODS Prospect i ve data base review identified readmitted and non-readmitted patients after colorectal surgery .  Variables for the index and readmission episode were examined . RESULTS A total of 212 readmissions and 3,292 nonreadmissions were analyzed . The majority was elective . Readmitted patients were older ( P = .003 ) , had more comorbidities ( P < .0001 ) , longer operative times ( P < .0001 ) , length of stay ( P < .0001 ) , and higher costs ( P = .002 ) . At the time of discharge , more readmitted patients required temporary nursing ( P < .0001 ) . Independent readmission predictors were higher American Society of Anesthesiologists score , previous abdominal operation , intensive care unit stay , and dysmotility/constipation surgery . At the time of readmission , 29.2 % required reoperation . More than half had an open procedure initially ( 55.2 % ) . After initial open procedures , reoperative time ( P = .05 ) and LOS were longer ( P = .028 ) , and more patients required temporary nursing care at the time of discharge ( P = .046 ) . Readmissions caused an additional mean hospital cost of $ 12,670.89 . CONCLUSIONS Readmitted patients have distinct demographic and outcomes variables . As most were elective cases , stratifying patients preoperatively may enable perioperative planning for this higher risk group BACKGROUND Enhanced Recovery Pathways ( ERPs ) have demonstrated reduced hospital length of stay and improved outcomes after colorectal surgery . Concerns exist about increases in readmission rates . Laparoscopic colorectal surgery with an ERP can permit earlier discharge without compromising safety or increasing readmission rates . STUDY DESIGN A review of a prospect i ve data base was performed for major elective colorectal procedures by a single surgeon . All patients followed a st and ardized ERP and discharge criteria . Patients were categorized by approach and day of discharge ( DoD ) of ≤ 1 , ≤ 2 , ≤ 3 , ≤ 7 , and > 7 days . Main outcomes measures were length of stay and 30-day readmission rates in each group . RESULTS Eight hundred and six cases ( 609 laparoscopic , 197 open ) were identified during a 64-month period . Mean age was similar for the laparoscopic ( 59.1 years ) and open ( 58.3 years ) groups . Mean overall DoD was at 5 days ( ± 4.8 days ) ; by approach , the mean laparoscopic DoD was at 3.9 days and open DoD was at 8.4 days . Twenty-nine percent were discharged within 48 hours ( 38 % laparoscopic and 8 % open ) and 50 % were discharged within 72 hours ( 62 % laparoscopic and 19 % open ) . Only 8.9 % of all patients ( n = 72 ) were readmitted ( 7.2 % laparoscopic , 14.2 % open ) . The cumulative readmission rate for laparoscopic patients in early DoD groups postoperative days 1 , 2 , and 3 were 0.2 % , 1.6 % , and 3.4 % , respectively . CONCLUSIONS Combining laparoscopy with an ERP optimizes patient care in colorectal surgery . The combination permits early discharge ; 38 % were discharged within 2 days and 62 % within 3 days of surgery , with low readmission rates . These results support that early DoD is possible without compromising patient safety or increasing readmission rates . This might be a marker for low readmission rate , and suggests that readmission rate alone might not be an adequate marker of quality Background This review aims to present a consensus for optimal perioperative care in colonic surgery and to provide grade d recommendations for items for an evidence d-based enhanced perioperative protocol . Methods Studies were selected with particular attention paid to meta-analyses , r and omised controlled trials and large prospect i ve cohorts . For each item of the perioperative treatment pathway , available English- language literature was examined , review ed and grade d. A consensus recommendation was reached after critical appraisal of the literature by the group . Results For most of the protocol items , recommendations are based on good- quality trials or meta-analyses of good- quality trials ( quality of evidence and recommendations according to the GRADE system ) . Conclusions Based on the evidence available for each item of the multimodal perioperative care pathway , the Enhanced Recovery After Surgery ( ERAS ) Society , International Association for Surgical Metabolism and Nutrition ( IASMEN ) and European Society for Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism ( ESPEN ) present a comprehensive evidence -based consensus review of perioperative care for colonic surgery
target: Reduced protocol compliance was the most frequently identified modifiable predictive factor for adverse LOS , morbidity and readmission .
  Conclusion Protocol compliance is the most frequently reported predictive factor for outcomes of ERAS programmes following laparoscopic colorectal resection .
  Reduced compliance increases LOS , morbidity and readmission to hospital .
  The impact of compliance with individual ERAS protocol elements is insufficiently studied , and the lack of a st and ardised framework for evaluating ERAS programmes makes it difficult to draw definite conclusions about which factors exert the greatest impact on outcome after laparoscopic colorectal resection
background: Objective To perform a systematic review of published literature for the factors reported to predict outcomes of enhanced recovery after surgery ( ERAS ) programmes following  laparoscopic colorectal surgery .
  Background ERAS programmes and the use of laparoscopy have been widely adopted in colorectal surgery bringing short-term patient benefit .
  However , there is a minority of patients that do not benefit from these strategies and their identification is not well characterised .
  The factors that underpin outcomes from ERAS programmes for laparoscopic patients are not understood .