Comparison of enhanced recovery protocol with conventional care in patients undergoing minor gynecologic surgery

Introduction: Data regarding the role of the enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocol in improving postoperative outcomes and postoperative compliance in patients undergoing gynecological surgery, in particular, minor laparoscopic and hysteroscopic gynecological procedures, are limited.

Aim: To investigate the impact of the ERAS protocol on time to ambulation, length of stay (LOS), readmissions and postoperative complications in patients undergoing minor gynecological surgical procedures.

Material and methods: A total of 104 patients undergoing minor laparoscopic and hysteroscopic gynecological procedures were randomized to the ERAS protocol or conventional care. Time to defecation, ambulation, and solid food intake, bleeding and LOS were recorded for each patient.

Results: The amount of intravenous fluid administered in the perioperative (p < 0.001) and postoperative period (p < 0.001) was significantly higher in the conventional care group than in the ERAS group. In addition, time to first defecation (p < 0.001), time to eating solid food (p < 0.001), and time to ambulation (p = 0.008) were shorter in the ERAS group compared to the conventional care group. Length of stay was also significantly shorter in the ERAS group than in the conventional care group (p < 0.001).

Conclusions: Implementation of ERAS protocols provides shorter LOS, less fluid intake, early return of bowel function and early mobilization without an increase in complication rate in women undergoing minor laparoscopic or hysteroscopic gynecologic surgery.