Enhanced recovery after elective cesarean sections

Abstract

Objective: To compare the early recovery after surgery (ERAS) pprotocol with the conventional one in women undergoing elective CS. Patients and Methods: The study included 96 women undergoing elective cesarean section for different reasons. They were randomly divided into two groups 48 patients each, Group (A) received the ERAS regimen and Group (B) was managed with the conventional care. Women with major medical or obstetric disorders were excluded. Results: Cases' age ranged between 18-35 years without significant difference between groups. Also, gestational age, haemoglobin concentration and platelet count were comparable between groups. Intra and post-operative nausea and vomiting were significantly higher (p value <0.0366) in the control group (8 vs 17). Group A had significantly shorter interval to oral intake, ambulation, first intestinal sound and first motion. Moreover, the need to use opiate for pain control with overall pain scores were significantly lower in study group with significantly better satisfaction rates and shorter hospital stay. Conclusion: ERAS protocol for women planned for elective CS is effective in controlling perioperative gastrointestinal symptoms, pain control and encourages early ambulation with offering earlier resumption of intestinal motility, higher satisfaction and fewer days of admission.