Enhanced Recovery After Surgery: Exploring the Advances and Strategies

Abstract

Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) has emerged as a paradigm-shifting approach in perioperative care, aimed at optimizing patient outcomes, accelerating recovery, and minimizing hospital stays. This review delves into the latest advances and strategies within the field of ERAS, encompassing a comprehensive examination of preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative interventions. By analyzing an array of clinical studies, meta-analyses, and implementation experiences, this review highlights the multifaceted elements contributing to the success of ERAS programs. Key components such as preoperative patient education, minimally invasive surgical techniques, tailored anesthesia protocols, judicious fluid management, optimized pain control, early ambulation, and structured nutritional support are thoroughly explored. Furthermore, the review delves into the intricacies of ERAS implementation across diverse surgical specialties, emphasizing the significance of multidisciplinary collaboration, protocol customization, and sustained quality improvement initiatives. The analysis not only showcases the tangible benefits of ERAS, including reduced complication rates, shortened hospital stays, and enhanced patient satisfaction, but also underscores the challenges and barriers that medical professionals encounter during program adoption. By synthesizing the current state of ERAS research and practice, this review provides clinicians, administrators, and researchers with valuable insights into the evolving landscape of perioperative care, fostering a deeper understanding of ERAS as a holistic approach that transcends traditional surgical pathways.