Our Summary

This study investigated if a method known as the “enhanced recovery after surgery” (ERAS) protocol is safe and effective for patients undergoing gallbladder removal surgery (cholecystectomy), compared to standard care. The research team looked at several studies from recognized databases, with a total of 1920 patients.

The results showed that patients who went through the ERAS method had shorter hospital stays, less pain 24 hours after surgery, passed gas faster after surgery (which is a sign of recovery), and had quicker operations. They were also less likely to feel sick or vomit after surgery.

However, the study found no significant differences between ERAS and standard care in terms of rates of re-admission to the hospital, blood loss, complications after surgery, or leakage from the bile duct.

In simple terms, the study suggests that the ERAS method is beneficial for patients having gallbladder removal surgery. It appears to be better than standard care in reducing the amount of time a patient stays in hospital, decreasing the chance of feeling sick or vomiting after surgery, lessening the pain after surgery, and speeding up the recovery process.

FAQs

  1. What is the “enhanced recovery after surgery” (ERAS) protocol?
  2. How does the ERAS method compare to standard care for patients undergoing gallbladder removal surgery?
  3. What are the potential advantages of the ERAS method for patients having gallbladder removal surgery?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might give a patient about cholecystectomy is to ask about the possibility of using the enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocol. This method has been shown to improve outcomes and speed up the recovery process for patients undergoing gallbladder removal surgery. By discussing this option with your healthcare provider, you may be able to have a quicker and more comfortable recovery experience.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for cholecystectomy include those with symptomatic gallstones, gallbladder inflammation (cholecystitis), gallbladder polyps, gallbladder cancer, or biliary dyskinesia. These patients may experience symptoms such as severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, bloating, and jaundice. In some cases, cholecystectomy may also be recommended for patients with recurrent episodes of biliary colic or pancreatitis related to gallstones.

Timeline

Timeline of patient experience before and after cholecystectomy:

Before surgery:

  • Patient experiences symptoms of gallbladder issues such as abdominal pain, bloating, nausea, and vomiting.
  • Patient undergoes diagnostic tests to confirm the need for cholecystectomy.
  • Patient schedules surgery and follows pre-operative instructions from healthcare providers.

During surgery:

  • Patient is admitted to the hospital and undergoes cholecystectomy procedure.
  • ERAS protocol may be implemented to help with post-operative recovery.

After surgery:

  • Patient wakes up in the recovery room and is monitored for any complications.
  • Patient may experience pain and discomfort at the surgical site.
  • Patient is encouraged to start moving and walking to aid in recovery.
  • Patient may be discharged from the hospital sooner if following the ERAS protocol.
  • Patient is advised on post-operative care, including diet and activity restrictions.
  • Patient follows up with healthcare providers for monitoring and potential complications.
  • Patient gradually resumes normal activities and diet as directed by healthcare providers.

Overall, the patient may experience a quicker recovery and less post-operative complications if following the ERAS protocol compared to standard care after cholecystectomy.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about cholecystectomy and the use of the ERAS protocol include:

  1. Can you explain the ERAS protocol to me in more detail and how it differs from standard care for cholecystectomy?
  2. What are the potential benefits of using the ERAS protocol for my surgery?
  3. Are there any specific risks or complications associated with the ERAS protocol that I should be aware of?
  4. Will I still receive the same level of pain management and post-operative care with the ERAS protocol?
  5. How long can I expect to stay in the hospital if I undergo cholecystectomy using the ERAS protocol?
  6. What are the criteria for determining if I am a suitable candidate for the ERAS protocol?
  7. How does the ERAS protocol affect my recovery time and overall outcome compared to standard care?
  8. Will I have access to a multidisciplinary team to support me through the ERAS protocol and my recovery process?
  9. What additional resources or support services are available to me if I choose to undergo cholecystectomy with the ERAS protocol?
  10. Are there any specific post-operative instructions or guidelines I should follow if I opt for the ERAS protocol?

Reference

Authors: Qin J, Gou LY, Zhang W, Pu X, Zhang P. Journal: J Laparoendosc Adv Surg Tech A. 2024 Aug;34(8):710-720. doi: 10.1089/lap.2024.0119. Epub 2024 Jul 8. PMID: 38976496