Impact of a Colorectal Enhanced Recovery Program Implementation on Clinical Outcomes and Institutional Costs: A Prospective Cohort Study With Retrospective Control

Detailed Summary

Importance: The Enhanced Recovery Program (ERP) for perioperative care of the surgical patient reduces the postoperative metabolic response and organ dysfunction thereby accelerating functional recovery. Consequently, the hospital length of stay (LOS) may be reduced, with no increase in morbidity and mortality rates resulting in a potential economic benefit. Objective: To determine impact on postoperative recovery and cost-effectiveness of implementing an ERP for colorectal surgery in an Italian academic center. Design, Setting, and Participants: A prospective consecutive series of patients (N=100) undergoing elective colorectal resection completing a standardized ERP in 2013-2015 (ERP group) will be compared to patients (N=100) operated on at the same Italian University hospital in 2010-2011 (Pre-ERP group) before introducing ERP program. The exclusion criteria are: age\>80 years old, ASA score IV, tumour stage IV, and inflammatory bowel disease. Exposures: ERP for perioperative care. Main Outcomes and Measures: To evaluate the impact of colorectal ERP implementation on hospital LOS proxy of functional recovery. Secondary outcomes include: postoperative complications, 30-day readmission and mortality, protocol adherence, nursing workload, cost-effectiveness, and factors predicting prolonged hospital LOS. Patients' satisfaction in ERP group will also be prospectively evaluated.

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