Preoperative correlates of prolonged postoperative ileus among patients undergoing colorectal surgeries

Background Prolonged postoperative ileus (PPOI) is one of the most common complications following colorectal surgeries, which leads to increased postoperative morbidity, mortality, and length of hospital stay. Aim The aim of this study was to examine preoperative correlates of PPOI among patients undergoing colorectal surgeries. Design A descriptive correlational research design was used in this study. Setting The study was conducted at selected General and Emergency Surgery Departments of Kasr El Eini Hospital affiliated to Cairo University hospitals. Sample A convenient sample of 60 adult male and female patients was recruited to answer the research question. Results The main study findings revealed that the incidence of PPOI occurred in 66.7% of patients. A statistically significant correlation was found between PPOI occurrence and surgical approach (laparotomy, 87%,and colectomy, 65%), duration of preoperative intravenous fluid administration (87.5%), preoperative antibiotics (55%), low hemoglobin and hematocrit level (72.5%), preoperative prolonged duration of fasting for liquids more than 24 h (57.5%), and lack of preoperative teaching about recovery plan for most of the study participants. Conclusion Preoperative correlates of PPOI according to the current study findings are the laparotomy surgical approach, the colectomy procedure, duration of intravenous fluids administration, low hemoglobin and hematocrit levels, prolonged fasting for liquids, and lack of teaching about preoperative recovery plan. Recommendations Further research studies are required to determine the best practice for prevention and reduction of PPOI incidence. Comprehensive education programs for health team members and the patients regarding the guidlines of caring for colorectal surgery within the context of enhanced recovery after surgery program are required.