Fast-Track Colorectal Surgery

Conventional treatment after intra-abdominal surgery has emphasized prolonged rest of the gastrointestinal tract. The postoperative patient suffers a certain amount of functional or nutritional decline. However, using the fast-track protocol through a multidisciplinary team approach, the patient can overcome post-surgical troubles. Decrease of stress, return to normal functions, and avoidance of after effects can be achieved. The main elements of the fast track are epidural anesthesia, sublating the routine use of nasogastric tubes, enforced postoperative mobilization, and oral feeding. These prove to be effective in improving the patients' status, in reducing the overall hospital stay, and in reducing postoperative complications. The ultimate aim of enhanced recovery after surgery should not be based on practical reasons such as early patient discharge, but should be founded on evidence-based medicine focusing on improving quality of life through standardized treatment.