An enhanced recovery after surgery pathway in pediatric colorectal surgery improves patient outcomes
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In brief
In brief
This retrospective study demonstrates that implementing an ERAS pathway in pediatric colorectal surgery significantly reduces opioid use, shortens hospital stay, and accelerates return to oral intake without increasing complications. The findings support routine adoption of ERAS protocols for children undergoing colorectal procedures.
Written by the GCMD Library team from the article.
Abstract
Introduction
Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) pathways in adult colorectal surgery are known to reduce complications, readmissions, and length of stay (LOS). However, there is a paucity of ERAS data for pediatric colorectal surgery.
Methods
A 2014–2018 single-institution, retrospective cohort study was performed on pediatric colorectal surgery patients (2–18 years) pre- and post-ERAS pathway implementation. Bivariate analysis and linear regression were used to determine if ERAS pathway implementation reduced total morphine milligram equivalents per kilogram (MME/kg), LOS, and time to oral intake.
Results
98 (70.5%) and 41 (29.5%) patients were managed with ERAS and non-ERAS pathways, respectively. There was no statistical difference in age, sex, diagnosis, or use of laparoscopic technique between cohorts. The ERAS cohort experienced a significant reduction in total MME/kg, Foley duration, time to oral intake, and LOS with no increase in complications. The presence of an ERAS pathway reduced the total MME/kg (−0.071, 95% CI −0.10, −0.043) when controlling for covariates.
Conclusion
The use of an ERAS pathway reduces opioid utilization, which is associated with a reduction in LOS and expedites the initiation of oral intake, in colorectal pediatric surgery patients. Pediatric ERAS pathways should be incorporated into the care of pediatric patients undergoing colorectal surgery.
Level of evidence
Level III evidence.
Type of study
Retrospective cohort study.