Our Summary

This research paper discusses the benefits of a method known as ‘fast-track’ or enhanced recovery after surgery. This method is based on specific protocols designed to standardize the care given after an operation, with the aim to improve patient recovery, reduce complications, and cut down on healthcare costs. Fast-track surgery takes into account measures taken before, during, and after an operation with a goal to reduce the patient’s hospital stay and likelihood of complications, particularly after elective abdominal surgery.

By adhering to these fast-track protocols, the care and recovery process is optimized, resulting in less surgical trauma, less stress after surgery, less pain, fewer complications, and a shorter hospital stay. However, this kind of care requires teamwork between all healthcare professionals, as well as a high level of adherence to the protocol and good organization.

Although evidence shows that fast-track protocols can be beneficial in a variety of surgical procedures, and that laparoscopic colonic surgery has similar outcomes to open surgery, it’s still unclear whether fast-track care specifically benefits patients after laparoscopic colonic surgery.

FAQs

  1. What is the purpose of fast-track methods in post-operative medical care?
  2. How does fast-track care help improve the outcomes of laparoscopic colonic surgery?
  3. Despite the benefits of fast-track protocols, why is the evidence of its benefits after laparoscopic colonic surgery not clearly demonstrated?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about colectomy is to follow the enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) or ‘fast-track’ protocol to optimize post-operative care, promote early recovery, and reduce complications. This may include measures such as early mobilization, pain management, and nutritional support to help ensure a smoother recovery process. It is important to work closely with your healthcare team and adhere to the protocol to achieve the best outcomes after surgery.

Suitable For

Patients who may be recommended for colectomy include those with:

  1. Colorectal cancer
  2. Inflammatory bowel disease (such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis)
  3. Diverticulitis
  4. Severe constipation or slow transit constipation
  5. Colonic polyps or other benign growths in the colon
  6. Chronic colonic pseudo-obstruction
  7. Familial adenomatous polyposis
  8. Colonic volvulus
  9. Colonic ischemia or necrosis
  10. Reoccurrence of colorectal cancer after previous treatment

Timeline

Before colectomy:

  • Patients will typically undergo a series of pre-operative tests and evaluations to determine if they are a suitable candidate for surgery.
  • They may need to follow a special diet or take medications to prepare their bowels for the procedure.
  • Patients will meet with their surgical team to discuss the procedure, potential risks and benefits, and what to expect during recovery.
  • The day of surgery, patients will be admitted to the hospital, undergo the procedure, and be monitored closely in the immediate post-operative period.

After colectomy:

  • In the immediate post-operative period, patients will be closely monitored for any complications or signs of infection.
  • Patients will gradually start eating and drinking, and may be encouraged to move around to prevent blood clots and promote healing.
  • Pain management will be a key aspect of post-operative care, with various methods used to keep patients comfortable.
  • Patients will be discharged from the hospital once they are stable, able to eat and drink, and have their pain under control.
  • Follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor healing, address any concerns, and discuss long-term care and dietary adjustments.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is a colectomy and why do I need this surgery?
  2. What are the risks and potential complications of a colectomy?
  3. What is the recovery time for a colectomy and what can I expect during the recovery process?
  4. Will I need to follow a specific diet or make any lifestyle changes after the surgery?
  5. How will pain be managed after the surgery?
  6. What follow-up care will be needed after the surgery?
  7. Will I need any additional treatments or medication after the surgery?
  8. What are the success rates of colectomy surgery and what are the potential long-term outcomes?
  9. Are there any alternatives to colectomy surgery that I should consider?
  10. How experienced are you with performing colectomy surgeries and what is your success rate with this procedure?

Reference

Authors: Garmpis N, Dimitroulis D, Garmpi A, Diamantis E, Spartalis E, Schizas D, Angelou A, Margonis GA, Farmaki P, Antoniou EA, Mantas D, Markatos K, Kontzoglou K, Damaskos C. Journal: In Vivo. 2019 May-Jun;33(3):669-674. doi: 10.21873/invivo.11525. PMID: 31028183