Improved Postoperative Pain Management Outcomes After Implementation of Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) Protocol for Cytoreductive Surgery and Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy (CRS-HIPEC).

BACKGROUND: Cytoreductive surgery with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (CRS-HIPEC) for patients with peritoneal carcinomatosis is promising but has potential for significant morbidity and prolonged hospitalization. Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) is a standardized protocol designed to optimize perioperative care. This study describes trends in epidural and opioid use after implementing ERAS for CRS-HIPEC at a tertiary academic center. METHODS: A retrospective analysis of patients undergoing CRS-HIPEC from January 2020 to September 2023 was conducted. ERAS was implemented in February 2022. Medication and outcomes data were compared before and after ERAS initiation. All opioids were converted to morphine milligram equivalents (MMEs). RESULTS: A total of 136 patients underwent CRS-HIPEC: 73 (54%) pre- and 63 (46%) post-ERAS. Epidural usage increased from 63% pre-ERAS to 87% post-ERAS (p = 0.001). Compared with those without epidurals, patients with epidurals had decreased total 7-day oral and intravenous (IV) opioid requirements (45 MME vs. 316 MME; p < 0.001). There was no difference in 7-day opioid totals between pre- and post-ERAS groups. After ERAS, more patients achieved early ambulation (83% vs. 53%; p < 0.001), early diet initiation (81% vs. 25%; p < 0.001), and early return of bowel function (86% vs. 67%; p = 0.012). CONCLUSIONS: ERAS implementation for CRS-HIPEC was associated with increased epidural use, decreased oral and IV opioid use, and earlier bowel function return. Our study demonstrates that epidural analgesia provides adequate pain control while significantly decreasing oral and IV opioid use, which may promote gastrointestinal recovery postoperatively. These findings support the implementation of an ERAS protocol for effective pain management in patients undergoing CRS-HIPEC.

Access to Burn Care in the US.

This cross-sectional study examines burn incidence rates and accessibility of American Burn Association­verified or self-designated burn centers from 2013 to 2019.

Impact of Successful Implementation of an Enhanced Recovery After Surgery Protocol for Patients Undergoing Cytoreductive Surgery and Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy.

BACKGROUND: Cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (CRS/HIPEC) are complex operations for the treatment of peritoneal metastases. Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocols are intended to standardize preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative pathways, with the goal of improving patient care. This study describes feasibility and outcomes after implementing an ERAS protocol for CRS/HIPEC at a tertiary academic center. METHODS: A single-institution experience of CRS/HIPEC was reviewed from January 2020 to March 2023. Patients were categorized according to whether they underwent CRS/HIPEC before or after ERAS initiation. Outcomes and protocol adherence were evaluated. RESULTS: A total of 115 CRS/HIPEC operations were included-74 before and 41 after ERAS implementation. Median age was younger in the post-ERAS group, whereas sex, comorbidities, peritoneal carcinomatosis index, operation performed, and operative time were similar between groups. The most common primary cancer sites were gynecologic (40%), appendiceal (24%), and colorectal (22%). Adherence to all postoperative ERAS components was 76%. More post-ERAS patients ambulated by postoperative day (POD) 1 (90% vs. 54%; p < 0.001), tolerated liquid diet by POD 2 (88% vs. 32%; p < 0.001), and had foley removed by POD 3 (86% vs. 43%; p < 0.001). There was a trend toward decreased length of stay in the post-ERAS cohort (7 vs. 8 days; p = 0.092), with no difference in major complications, intensive care unit admission, or 30-day readmission. CONCLUSIONS: Despite the heterogeneity of CRS/HIPEC operations, implementing an ERAS protocol for our patients was feasible and resulted in postoperative outcomes and adherence comparable with that of other major abdominal surgeries. This supports the potential for success in ERAS programs for CRS/HIPEC patients.