ERAS protocols for oral cancer free tissue transfer reconstruction: Critical review and clinical checklist

The Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) consensus offers a robust framework but must be tailored to the unique challenges of free-tissue transfer reconstructions in oral cancer. Factors such as clinical heterogeneity, institutional variability, inconsistent monitoring, and the absence of internal compliance audits can undermine postoperative recovery. By fostering multidisciplinary collaboration, ERAS can evolve from a theoretical guideline into a reproducible clinical pathway that enhances survival, functional outcomes and quality of life for oral cancer patients undergoing free-tissue reconstruction. Our proposed checklist merges evidence-based recommendations with practical adaptations to establish a more consistent, auditable and outcome-driven approach to perioperative care.