Our Summary

The research paper studies a method called Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) that is designed to speed up recovery after an operation. This study specifically looked at how ERAS affects children under 18 who underwent a specific type of urologic reconstructive surgery. The ERAS method used in this study included multiple methods of pain relief, minimizing the use of opioids, and routine prevention of nausea and vomiting. The children who underwent this ERAS method were compared to a group of children who had the surgery in the past without the ERAS method. The results showed that ERAS increased the number of children who did not need any opioids during or after surgery. It also reduced maximum pain scores after surgery and decreased the use of supplemental oxygen after surgery. In simpler terms, the ERAS method seemed to reduce post-surgery pain, the need for strong painkillers, and improved other outcomes for children having this specific type of surgery.

FAQs

  1. What is the Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) method and how does it work?
  2. How does the ERAS method impact the need for opioids during or after pediatric urologic reconstructive surgery?
  3. Did the ERAS method show any other benefits for children undergoing urologic reconstructive surgery, beyond reducing post-surgery pain and the need for strong painkillers?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor might tell a patient that using the Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) method for pediatric urologic reconstruction can help reduce post-surgery pain, decrease the need for strong painkillers like opioids, and improve overall recovery outcomes. It is important to follow the ERAS protocol as prescribed by your healthcare team to help optimize your child’s recovery and minimize potential complications.

Suitable For

Pediatric patients who undergo urologic reconstructive surgery may be recommended for pediatric urologic reconstruction. These patients may have conditions such as congenital anomalies of the genitourinary tract, bladder exstrophy, hypospadias, vesicoureteral reflux, ureteropelvic junction obstruction, and other urologic conditions that require surgical intervention. These patients may benefit from pediatric urologic reconstruction to improve their quality of life, urinary function, and overall health.

Timeline

Before pediatric urologic reconstruction:

  1. Referral to a pediatric urologist for evaluation of urologic condition.
  2. Consultation with the pediatric urologist to discuss treatment options, including the possibility of urologic reconstruction.
  3. Pre-operative evaluation and testing to ensure the child is healthy enough for surgery.
  4. Pre-surgical counseling and education for the child and their family about the procedure and what to expect during recovery.

After pediatric urologic reconstruction:

  1. Post-operative recovery in the hospital, including pain management and monitoring for complications.
  2. Transition to at-home recovery with instructions on wound care, activity restrictions, and follow-up appointments.
  3. Follow-up appointments with the pediatric urologist to monitor healing and address any concerns.
  4. Rehabilitation and physical therapy if needed to regain strength and function in the affected area.
  5. Long-term follow-up to monitor the success of the urologic reconstruction and address any long-term complications or issues.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What specific type of urologic reconstructive surgery will my child be undergoing?
  2. How will the ERAS method be implemented before, during, and after my child’s surgery?
  3. What are the potential benefits of using the ERAS method for pediatric urologic reconstruction?
  4. Are there any risks or side effects associated with using the ERAS method in pediatric patients?
  5. How will pain management be handled for my child during and after surgery with the ERAS method?
  6. How will nausea and vomiting be prevented in my child during and after surgery with the ERAS method?
  7. Will my child have a faster recovery time with the ERAS method compared to traditional methods?
  8. How will the use of opioids be minimized for my child with the ERAS method?
  9. What follow-up care will be needed for my child after undergoing pediatric urologic reconstruction with the ERAS method?
  10. Are there any specific lifestyle changes or precautions my child should take after surgery with the ERAS method?

Reference

Authors: Han DS, Brockel MA, Boxley PJ, Dönmez Mİ, Saltzman AF, Wilcox DT, Rove KO. Journal: Pediatr Surg Int. 2021 Jan;37(1):151-159. doi: 10.1007/s00383-020-04775-0. Epub 2020 Nov 7. PMID: 33161476