The application of ERAS Protocol in Laparoscopic Radical Cystectomy combined with Cutaneous Ureterostomy and its impact on postoperative recovery

Objective: The effectiveness of the Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocol in patients undergoing laparoscopic radical cystectomy combined with cutaneous ureterostomy (LRC-CU) is unclear. This study aimed to explore the effectiveness of Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocols in patients undergoing laparoscopic radical cystectomy combined with cutaneous ureterostomy (LRC-CU). Methods: This retrospective study included clinical records of patients who underwent LRC-CU in the West China Hospital of Sichuan University from October 2022 to October 2024. Patients were divided into the ERAS and the non-ERAS groups based on the adopted perioperative protocol. Postoperative recovery status, the Herth Hope Index (HHI), the Assessment of Cancer Therapy-General (FACT-G), and the incidence of complications were assessed. Results: A total of 105 patients were included, with 54 patients in the ERAS and 51 in the non-ERAS group. The times to postoperative exhaustion, first bowel movement, getting out of bed, and length of hospital stay were significantly shorter in the non-ERAS group (P < 0.05). After surgery, the HII and FACT-G scores in both groups increased compared to preoperative values and were significantly higher in the ERAS group compared to the non-ERAS group (P < 0.05). The incidence of complications in the ERAS group (3.70%) was lower than that in the non-ERAS group (17.65%) (P<0.05). Conclusions: The ERAS protocols adopted by LRC-CU can significantly shorten the rehabilitation process, reduce the incidence of complications, and improve the HHI and the quality of life (QOL) of LRC-CU patients.