Development of an enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocol in laparoscopic colorectal surgery: results of the first 120 consecutive cases from a university hospital

The ERAS^® represents a dynamic culmination of upon perioperative care elements, successfully applied to different surgical specialties with shorter hospital stay and lower morbidity rates. The aim of this study is to describe the introduction of the ERAS protocol in colorectal surgery in our hospital analysing our first series. Between September 2014 and June 2016, 120 patients suffering from colorectal diseases were included in the study. Laparoscopic approach was used in all patients if not contraindicated. Patients were discharged when adequate mobilization, canalization, and pain control were obtained. Analysed outcomes were: length of hospital stay, readmission rate, perioperative morbidity, and mortality. Malignant lesions were the most common indication (84.2%; 101/120). Laparoscopic approach was performed in the 95.8% of cases (115/120) with a conversion rate of 4.4% (5/115). Surgical procedures performed were: 36 rectal resections (30%), 36 left colonic resections (30%), 42 right hemicolectomy (35%), and 6 Miles (5%). The median hospital stay was of 4 (3–34) days in the whole series with a morbidity rate of 10% (12/120); four patients experienced Clavien-Dindo ≥ IIIa complications; and only one anastomotic leak was observed. No 30-day readmission and no perioperative mortality were recorded. At the univariate analysis, the presence of complications was the only predictive factor for prolonged hospital stay (p < 0.001). In our experience, implementation of ERAS protocol for colorectal surgery allows a significant reduction of hospital stay improving perioperative management and postoperative outcomes.