Analysis of protocol adherence and outcomes of an enhanced recovery program in colorectal surgery after 5 years of implementation.

Abstract

Introduction: Enhanced recovery program (ERAS program) have revolutionized the world of surgery by reducing postoperative complications and hospital stays. Greater adherence to the protocol results in better outcomes; however, adherence often declines over time. The main objective of this study is to analyze the adherence rate to ERAS strategies and the outcomes of an ERAS colorectal (CRC) program five years after its implementation.

Methodology: This is a descriptive observational study comparing two groups of patients undergoing scheduled CRC surgery under an ERAS program at University Hospital. The first group (ERAS) includes patients operated on during the period immediately following the implementation of the protocol (January 2017-June 2018), while the second group (ERAS 5) includes patients operated on five years after the implementation (January 2022-June 2022).

Results: An increase in the adherence rate to ERAS strategies was observed (88.2% in ERAS vs. 84.2% in ERAS 5, p 0.003), as well as a reduction in healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) (9% in ERAS vs. 25.2% in ERAS 5, p 0.001) and surgical site infections (6% in ERAS vs. 18.2% in ERAS 5, p 0.002). No differences were found in other postoperative complications, functional recovery, average length of stay, and readmission rates.

Conclusions: After five years of implementing an ERAS protocol for CRC in our hospital, we have managed to maintain a high adherence rate to ERAS strategies. There has been a significant reduction in HAIs and surgical site infections.