Effectiveness of an Enhanced Recovery After Surgery Program in Gynaecology Oncologic Surgery: A Single-Centre Prospective Cohort Study

Objective

This study sought to evaluate whether the partial implementation of an Early Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) program lowers length of hospital stay (LOS) without compromising postoperative outcome.

Methods

A single-centre prospective cohort study was conducted in a tertiary gynaecologic oncology department, by comparing standard perioperative care with a partially implemented ERAS protocol. Data on postoperative evolution were gathered for patients who underwent laparotomy for suspected or confirmed endometrial, adnexal, or cervical neoplasia between July 1, 2015 and June 30, 2017 at the Hôtel-Dieu de Québec.

Results

A total of 390 cases were identified; 140 patients followed the ERAS protocol, and 250 patients received standard perioperative care. The median LOS in hours was significantly reduced for patients in the ERAS group (65.5 hours [interquartile range 59.8, 71.0] vs. 69.0 hours [interquartile range 64.3, 81.0], P < 0.001). There was no difference in complication rates, neither grade 1 (3% vs. 7%, P?=?0.155) nor grades 2 to 4 (7% vs. 5%, P?=?0.577), or in readmission rates (0.7% vs. 1.2%, P > 0.99).

Conclusion

Even a partially implemented ERAS program can significantly affect LOS without compromising patient care.