Introduction to Enhanced Recovery Programs: A Paradigm Shift in Perioperative Care

Abstract

Despite improvements in surgical and anesthetic techniques, a significant proportion of patients experience complications after major gastrointestinal surgery, there is significant variability in care processes and outcomes between practitioners, full patient functional recovery requires weeks or months, even after ambulatory surgery, and costs of care continue to rise without resulting in better population health. Achieving higher value care for patients, defined as health outcomes that matter to patients achieved per dollar spent, must become the goal.