PERIOPERATIVE CARE IN DIGESTIVE SURGERY: THE ERAS AND ACERTO PROTOCOLS. BRAZILIAN COLLEGE OF DIGESTIVE SURGERY POSITION PAPER / Cuidados perioperatórios em cirurgia digestiva: protocolos eras e acerto ­ posicionamento do Colégio Brasileiro de Cirurgia Digestiva

Background: The concept introduced by enhanced recovery after surgery protocols modifies perioperative traditional care in digestive surgery. The integration of these modern recommendations components during the perioperative period are highly important to ensure less postoperative complications, reduced length of hospital stay and decreased surgical costs. Aims: The aim of this position paper is to emphasize the most important points of a multimodal perioperative care protocol. Methods:  A careful analysis of each recommendation of both ERAS and ACERTO protocols is presented, justifying its inclusion in the recommended multimodal care of digestive surgery patients. Results: Enhanced recovery programs (ERPs) such as ERAS and ACERTO protocols are a cornerstone in modern perioperative care. Nutritional therapy is highly important in digestive surgery and thus both preoperative and postoperative nutrition care are key to ensure less postoperative complications and to reduce the length of hospital stay. The concept of prehabilitation is another key element in ERPs. Management of crystalloid fluids in a perfect balance in vital. Fluid overload may delay the recovery of patients and increase postoperative complications. Abbreviation of preoperative fast for 2h before anesthesia is now accepted by various guidelines of both surgical and anesthesiology societies. Combined with early postoperative refeeding, these prescriptions are not only safe but can also enhance recovery of patients undergoing digestive procedures. Conclusions: This Brazilian College of Digestive Surgery position paper strongly emphasizes that the implementation of ERPs in digestive surgery represents a paradigm shift in perioperative care, transcending traditional practices and embracing an intelligent approach to patient well-being.   Background: The concept introduced by enhanced recovery after surgery protocols modifies perioperative traditional care in digestive surgery. The integration of these modern recommendations components during the perioperative period are highly important to ensure less postoperative complications, reduced length of hospital stay and decreased surgical costs. Aims: The aim of this position paper is to emphasize the most important points of a multimodal perioperative care protocol. Methods:  A careful analysis of each recommendation of both ERAS and ACERTO protocols is presented, justifying its inclusion in the recommended multimodal care of digestive surgery patients. Results: Enhanced recovery programs (ERPs) such as ERAS and ACERTO protocols are a cornerstone in modern perioperative care. Nutritional therapy is highly important in digestive surgery and thus both preoperative and postoperative nutrition care are key to ensure less postoperative complications and to reduce the length of hospital stay. The concept of prehabilitation is another key element in ERPs. Management of crystalloid fluids in a perfect balance in vital. Fluid overload may delay the recovery of patients and increase postoperative complications. Abbreviation of preoperative fast for 2h before anesthesia is now accepted by various guidelines of both surgical and anesthesiology societies. Combined with early postoperative refeeding, these prescriptions are not only safe but can also enhance recovery of patients undergoing digestive procedures. Conclusions: This Brazilian College of Digestive Surgery position paper strongly emphasizes that the implementation of ERPs in digestive surgery represents a paradigm shift in perioperative care, transcending traditional practices and embracing an intelligent approach to patient well-being.

ACERTO Project - 15 years changing perioperative care in Brazil.

The ACERTO project is a multimodal perioperative care protocol. Implemented in 2005, the project in the last 15 years has disseminated the idea of a modern perioperative care protocol, based on evidence and with interdisciplinary team work. Dozens of published studies, using the protocol, have shown benefits such as reduced hospital stay, postoperative complications and hospital costs. Disseminated in Brazil, the project is supported by the Brazilian College of Surgeons and the Brazilian Society of Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition, among others. This article compiles publications by the authors who belong to the CNPq research group "Acerto em Nutrição e Cirurgia", refers to the experience of other national authors in various surgical specialties, and finally outlines the evolution of the ACERTO project in the timeline.

Acerto Project - 15 years changing perioperative care in Brazil / Projeto Acerto - 15 anos modificando cuidados perioperatórios no Brasil

ABSTRACT The ACERTO project is a multimodal perioperative care protocol. Implemented in 2005, the project in the last 15 years has disseminated the idea of a modern perioperative care protocol, based on evidence and with interdisciplinary team work. Dozens of published studies, using the protocol, have shown benefits such as reduced hospital stay, postoperative complications and hospital costs. Disseminated in Brazil, the project is supported by the Brazilian College of Surgeons and the Brazilian Society of Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition, among others. This article compiles publications by the authors who belong to the CNPq research group "Acerto em Nutrição e Cirurgia", refers to the experience of other national authors in various surgical specialties, and finally outlines the evolution of the ACERTO project in the timeline.

RESUMO O projeto ACERTO é um protocolo multimodal de cuidados perioperatórios. Implementado em 2005, o projeto, nos últimos 15 anos, tem disseminado a ideia de moderno protocolo de cuidados perioperatórios baseados em evidência e com atuação interprofissional. Dezenas de estudos publicados com o uso do protocolo têm mostrado benefícios como redução do tempo de internação, complicações pós-operatórias e custos hospitalares. Disseminado pelo Brasil, o projeto tem apoio do Colégio Brasileiro de Cirurgiões e da Sociedade Brasileira de Nutrição Parenteral e Enteral, entre outros. Este artigo compila publicações dos autores que compõem o grupo de pesquisa do CNPq "Acerto em Nutrição e Cirurgia", cita a experiência de outros autores nacionais em diversas especialidades cirúrgica e finalmente, delineia a evolução do projeto ACERTO ao longo da linha do tempo.

Cost-effectiveness analysis of hernioplasties before and after the implementation of the ACERTO project.

OBJECTIVE: to compare hospital costs and clinical outcomes in inguinal and incisional hernioplasty before and after implementation of the ACERTO project in a university hospital. METHODS: retrospective study of 492 patients undergoing either inguinal hernioplasty (n=315) or incisional hernioplasty (n=177). The investigation involved two phases: between January 2002 and December 2005, encompassing cases admitted before the implementation of the ACERTO protocol (PRE-ACERTO period), and the other phase, with cases operated between January 2006 and December 2011, after the implementation of the protocol (ACERTO period). The main outcome variable was the comparison of the mean hospital costs between the two periods. As secondary endpoints, we analyzed the length of stay, the surgical site infection rate and mortality. We used the cost method suggested by Public Sector Cost Information System. RESULTS: surgical site infection was higher (p = 0.039) in the first phase of the study for both inguinal hernia operations (2 (1.6%) versus 0 (0%) cases) and incisional hernioplasty (5 (7.6%) versus 3 (2.7%) cases). The length of stay decreased one day after the implementation of the ACERTO protocol (p=0.005). There was a reduction in costs per patient from R$ 4,328.58 per patient in the first phase to R$ 2,885.72 in the second phase (66.7% reduction). CONCLUSION: there was a reduction in infectious morbidity, length of stay and hospital costs in hernioplasty after the implementation of the ACERTO protocol.

Cost-effectiveness analysis of hernioplasties before and after the implementation of the ACERTO project / Análise da custo-efetividade em hernioplastias antes e após a implementação do projeto ACERTO

ABSTRACT Objective: to compare hospital costs and clinical outcomes in inguinal and incisional hernioplasty before and after implementation of the ACERTO project in a university hospital. Methods: retrospective study of 492 patients undergoing either inguinal hernioplasty (n=315) or incisional hernioplasty (n=177). The investigation involved two phases: between January 2002 and December 2005, encompassing cases admitted before the implementation of the ACERTO protocol (PRE-ACERTO period), and the other phase, with cases operated between January 2006 and December 2011, after the implementation of the protocol (ACERTO period). The main outcome variable was the comparison of the mean hospital costs between the two periods. As secondary endpoints, we analyzed the length of stay, the surgical site infection rate and mortality. We used the cost method suggested by Public Sector Cost Information System. Results: surgical site infection was higher (p = 0.039) in the first phase of the study for both inguinal hernia operations (2 (1.6%) versus 0 (0%) cases) and incisional hernioplasty (5 (7.6%) versus 3 (2.7%) cases). The length of stay decreased one day after the implementation of the ACERTO protocol (p=0.005). There was a reduction in costs per patient from R$ 4,328.58 per patient in the first phase to R$ 2,885.72 in the second phase (66.7% reduction). Conclusion: there was a reduction in infectious morbidity, length of stay and hospital costs in hernioplasty after the implementation of the ACERTO protocol.

RESUMO Objetivo: comparar custos hospitalares e desfechos clínicos em hernioplastias inguinal e incisional antes e após a implementação do projeto ACERTO, em hospital universitário. Métodos: estudo retrospectivo com 492 pacientes submetidos à hernioplastias inguinais (n=315) ou incisionais (n=177). A investigação envolveu duas fases: entre janeiro de 2002 e dezembro de 2005, englobando casos internados antes da implantação do protocolo ACERTO (período PRÉ-ACERTO), e outra, com casos operados entre janeiro de 2006 e dezembro de 2011, após a implantação (período ACERTO). A variável de desfecho principal foi o custo médio de internação comparando-se os dois períodos estudados. Como desfecho secundário, analisou-se tempo de internação, infecção de sítio cirúrgico e mortalidade. Foi utilizado o método de custeio do Sistema de Informação de Custos do Setor Público. Resultados: a ocorrência de infecção de sítio cirúrgico foi maior (p=0,039) na primeira fase do estudo tanto para hernioplastias inguinais (2 (1,6%) versus 0 (0%) casos) quanto para incisionais (5 (7,6%) versus 3 (2,7%) casos). O tempo de internação diminuiu em um dia após a implementação do protocolo ACERTO (p=0,005). Houve redução no custo por paciente indo de R$ 4.328,58 por paciente na 1ª fase para R$ 2.885,72 na 2ª fase (redução de 66,7%). Conclusão: o conjunto de dados mostrou que houve redução da morbidade infecciosa, tempo de internação e custos hospitalares em hernioplastias após a implementação do protocolo ACERTO.

ACERTO guidelines of perioperative nutritional interventions in elective general surgery.

OBJECTIVE: to present recommendations based on the ACERTO Project (Acceleration of Total Post-Operative Recovery) and supported by evidence related to perioperative nutritional care in General Surgery elective procedures. METHODS: review of relevant literature from 2006 to 2016, based on a search conducted in the main databases, with the purpose of answering guiding questions previously formulated by specialists, within each theme of this guideline. We preferably used randomized controlled trials, systematic reviews and meta-analyzes but also selected some cohort studies. We contextualized each recommendation-guiding question to determine the quality of the evidence and the strength of this recommendation (GRADE). This material was sent to authors using an open online questionnaire. After receiving the answers, we formalized the consensus for each recommendation of this guideline. RESULTS: the level of evidence and the degree of recommendation for each item is presented in text form, followed by a summary of the evidence found. CONCLUSION: this guideline reflects the recommendations of the group of specialists of the Brazilian College of Surgeons, the Brazilian Society of Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition and the ACERTO Project for nutritional interventions in the perioperative period of Elective General Surgery. The prescription of these recommendations can accelerate the postoperative recovery of patients submitted to elective general surgery, with decrease in morbidity, length of stay and rehospitalization, and consequently, of costs.

ACERTO guidelines of perioperative nutritional interventions in elective general surgery / Diretriz ACERTO de intervenções nutricionais no perioperatório em cirurgia geral eletiva

ABSTRACT Objective: to present recommendations based on the ACERTO Project (Acceleration of Total Post-Operative Recovery) and supported by evidence related to perioperative nutritional care in General Surgery elective procedures. Methods: review of relevant literature from 2006 to 2016, based on a search conducted in the main databases, with the purpose of answering guiding questions previously formulated by specialists, within each theme of this guideline. We preferably used randomized controlled trials, systematic reviews and meta-analyzes but also selected some cohort studies. We contextualized each recommendation-guiding question to determine the quality of the evidence and the strength of this recommendation (GRADE). This material was sent to authors using an open online questionnaire. After receiving the answers, we formalized the consensus for each recommendation of this guideline. Results: the level of evidence and the degree of recommendation for each item is presented in text form, followed by a summary of the evidence found. Conclusion: this guideline reflects the recommendations of the group of specialists of the Brazilian College of Surgeons, the Brazilian Society of Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition and the ACERTO Project for nutritional interventions in the perioperative period of Elective General Surgery. The prescription of these recommendations can accelerate the postoperative recovery of patients submitted to elective general surgery, with decrease in morbidity, length of stay and rehospitalization, and consequently, of costs.

RESUMO Objetivo: apresentar recomendações, baseadas no Projeto ACERTO (Aceleração da Recuperação Total Pós-Operatória) e sustentada por evidências, relativas aos cuidados nutricionais perioperatórios em procedimentos eletivos em Cirurgia Geral. Métodos: revisão da literatura pertinente entre 2006 e 2016, com base em busca realizada nas principais bases de dados, com o intuito de responder a perguntas norteadoras previamente formuladas por especialistas, dentro de cada temática desta diretriz. Foram selecionados alguns estudos de coorte, mas, preferencialmente, foram utilizados estudos aleatórios controlados, revisões sistemáticas e meta-análises. Cada pergunta norteadora de recomendação foi contextualizada de modo a determinar a qualidade da evidência e a força desta recomendação (GRADE). Este material foi enviado aos autores utilizando um questionário aberto on-line. Após o recebimento das respostas, formalizou-se o consenso para cada recomendação desta diretriz. Resultados: o nível de evidência e o grau de recomendação para cada item é apresentado em forma de texto, seguido de resumo da evidência encontrada. Conclusão: esta diretriz traduz as recomendações do grupo de especialistas do Colégio Brasileiro de Cirurgiões, da Sociedade Brasileira de Nutrição Parenteral e Enteral e do Projeto ACERTO para intervenções nutricionais no período perioperatório em Cirurgia Geral eletiva. A prescrição dessas recomendações pode acelerar a recuperação pós-operatória de pacientes submetidos a operações eletivas em cirurgia geral, com diminuição de morbidade, do tempo de internação e de reinternações e, consequentemente, dos custos.

Perioperative care in bariatric surgery in the context of the ACERTO project: reality versus surgeons assumptions in a Cuiabá hospital. / Cuidados perioperatórios em cirurgia bariátrica no contexto do projeto ACERTO: realidade e o imaginário de cirurgiões em um hospital de Cuiabá.

OBJECTIVE:: to assess the level of knowledge among bariatric surgeons, about the recommendations of the ACERTO Project, correlating their assumptions on their perioperative prescriptions and the reality, according to the patients charts. METHOD:: we conducted a prospective, longitudinal, observational study comparing the assumptions of bariatric surgeons obtained through responses on a specific questionnaire with the reality found in clinical data from the hospital records. We analyzed the following variables: preoperative fasting, early postoperative feeding, intravenous hydration, perioperative antibiotic prophylaxis, use of abdominal drains, type of analgesia, and prophylaxis of nausea and vomiting. We confronted the responses of seven surgeons with data from 200 records of patients undergoing gastroplasty for morbid obesity. RESULTS:: all interviewed surgeons knew the ACERTO Project. Five (72%) responded that they followed the protocol thoroughly. The median time of preoperative fasting found in the records was higher than the reported by the surgeons (p<0.05). Early postoperative feeding was prescribed for 96.5% of cases. The median volume of intravenous fluids prescribed in the first 24 hours was 4000ml, which was consistent with the interviews. There were no differences between the response in the questionnaire and the findings in the hospital records in relation to antibiotic prophylaxis, use of catheters and drains, analgesia and prophylaxis of nausea and vomiting. CONCLUSION:: the ACERTO Project was well practiced among the surveyed surgeons. There was a good correlation between their assumptions and the reality in perioperative care of patients undergoing bariatric surgery. However, there was a significant difference in preoperative fasting time.

Cuidados perioperatórios em cirurgia bariátrica no contexto do projeto ACERTO: realidade e o imaginário de cirurgiões em um hospital de Cuiabá / Perioperative care in bariatric surgery in the context of the ACERTO project: reality versus surgeons assumptions in a Cuiabá hospital

RESUMO Objetivo: verificar o grau de conhecimento entre cirurgiões, sobre as recomendações do Projeto ACERTO em cirurgia bariátrica, correlacionando o "imaginário", sobre suas prescrições, e a "realidade", através de dados de prontuários de seus pacientes. Métodos: estudo observacional longitudinal prospectivo comparativo entre o "imaginário" dos cirurgiões, obtido através de respostas de questionário sobre condutas recomendadas pelo ACERTO e a análise de dados clínicos "reais" encontrados em prontuários de pacientes submetidos à cirurgia bariátrica. Foram analisados: jejum pré-operatório, realimentação precoce, hidratação venosa perioperatória, antibioticoprofilaxia, uso de sondas e drenos, analgesia e profilaxia de náuseas e vômitos. Foram confrontadas as respostas de sete cirurgiões e dados de 200 prontuários médicos. Resultados: todos os cirurgiões entrevistados conheciam o Projeto ACERTO. Cinco (72%) responderam que seguiam o protocolo completamente. O tempo mediano de jejum pré-operatório foi maior do que o relatado pelos cirurgiões (p<0,05). Os pacientes receberam realimentação precoce em 96,5% dos casos. O volume mediano de fluidos prescritos nas primeiras 24 horas foi 4000ml, condizente com a entrevista. Em relação à antibioticoprofilaxia, uso de sondas e drenos, analgesia e prevenção de náuseas e vômitos, não houve diferença entre o respondido e o constatado nos prontuários. Conclusão: o Projeto ACERTO era bem praticado entre os cirurgiões pesquisados, havendo boa correlação entre o "imaginário" e "realidade" dos cuidados perioperatórios prescritos em pacientes submetidos à cirurgia bariátrica.

ABSTRACT Objective: to assess the level of knowledge among bariatric surgeons, about the recommendations of the ACERTO Project, correlating their assumptions on their perioperative prescriptions and the reality, according to the patients charts. Method: we conducted a prospective, longitudinal, observational study comparing the assumptions of bariatric surgeons obtained through responses on a specific questionnaire with the reality found in clinical data from the hospital records. We analyzed the following variables: preoperative fasting, early postoperative feeding, intravenous hydration, perioperative antibiotic prophylaxis, use of abdominal drains, type of analgesia, and prophylaxis of nausea and vomiting. We confronted the responses of seven surgeons with data from 200 records of patients undergoing gastroplasty for morbid obesity. Results: all interviewed surgeons knew the ACERTO Project. Five (72%) responded that they followed the protocol thoroughly. The median time of preoperative fasting found in the records was higher than the reported by the surgeons (p<0.05). Early postoperative feeding was prescribed for 96.5% of cases. The median volume of intravenous fluids prescribed in the first 24 hours was 4000ml, which was consistent with the interviews. There were no differences between the response in the questionnaire and the findings in the hospital records in relation to antibiotic prophylaxis, use of catheters and drains, analgesia and prophylaxis of nausea and vomiting. Conclusion: the ACERTO Project was well practiced among the surveyed surgeons. There was a good correlation between their assumptions and the reality in perioperative care of patients undergoing bariatric surgery. However, there was a significant difference in preoperative fasting time.

Effect of glutamine on the total antioxidant system of rats subjected to renal ischemia and reperfusion / Efeito da glutamina no sistema antioxidante total de ratos submetidos a isquemia e reperfusão renal

PURPOSE: To evaluate the protective effects of glutamine administered before renal ischemia-reperfusion on plasma antioxidant protection, and lung and renal tissue injury. METHODS: 33 rats underwent right nephrectomy. On the eighth postoperative day, animals were randomized into three groups (n=11): glutamine, control and sham. Each group of animals received, by gavage, a particular diet for 7 days. On day 14 following nephrectomy, the animals were subjected to left renal ischemia-reperfusion. After this, blood samples were collected and the animals were killed. At necropsy the kidney and lung were removed for histology. RESULTS: The levels of total antioxidant capacity were higher in the glutamine group and control group compared with the sham group. The levels of glutathione peroxidase in both the sham and glutamine groups were higher when compared with the control group (p<0.05). The level of superoxide dismutase in the sham group was clearly higher than that in the glutamine and control groups. Histological examination showed no differences between the three groups. CONCLUSION: Prior intake of glutamine improves total antioxidant capacity and increases glutathione peroxidase levels in rats subjected to renal ischemia-reperfusion.

OBJETIVO: Avaliar os efeitos na proteção antioxidante plasmática e na lesão tecidual renal e pulmonar da glutamina oral administrada precedendo a isquemia/ reperfusão renal. MÉTODOS: Trinta e três ratos foram submetidos à nefrectomia à direita. No oitavo dia de pós-operatório, os animais foram randomizados em três grupos (n=11): glutamina, controle e sham. Cada grupo de animal recebeu por gavagem uma dieta distinta por sete dias. Ao final do 14º dia da nefrectomia procedeu-se a isquemia renal esquerda e posterior reperfusão. A seguir procedeu-se a coleta de sangue, eutanásia e retirada do rim e pulmões para análise histológica. RESULTADOS: Os níveis de capacidade antioxidante total foram maiores no grupo glutamina e grupo controle em relação ao grupo sham. Os níveis de glutationa peroxidase nos grupos sham e glutamina foram mais elevados quando comparados com o grupo controle (p<0,05). A dosagem de superóxido dismutase foi maior no grupo sham quando comparado com os grupos glutamina e controle. Não houve diferença na análise histológica do rim e pulmão entre os grupos. CONCLUSÃO: O uso de glutamina antecedendo a isquemia reperfusão renal melhora os níveis da capacidade antioxidante total e eleva a glutationa peroxidase em ratos submetidos a isquemia-reperfusão renal.

Effect of glutamine on the total antioxidant system of rats subjected to renal ischemia and reperfusion.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the protective effects of glutamine administered before renal ischemia-reperfusion on plasma antioxidant protection, and lung and renal tissue injury. METHODS: 33 rats underwent right nephrectomy. On the eighth postoperative day, animals were randomized into three groups (n=11): glutamine, control and sham. Each group of animals received, by gavage, a particular diet for 7 days. On day 14 following nephrectomy, the animals were subjected to left renal ischemia-reperfusion. After this, blood samples were collected and the animals were killed. At necropsy the kidney and lung were removed for histology. RESULTS: The levels of total antioxidant capacity were higher in the glutamine group and control group compared with the sham group. The levels of glutathione peroxidase in both the sham and glutamine groups were higher when compared with the control group (p<0.05). The level of superoxide dismutase in the sham group was clearly higher than that in the glutamine and control groups. Histological examination showed no differences between the three groups. CONCLUSION: Prior intake of glutamine improves total antioxidant capacity and increases glutathione peroxidase levels in rats subjected to renal ischemia-reperfusion.

Clinical benefits after the implementation of a multimodal perioperative protocol in elderly patients.

CONTEXT: Multimodal protocol of perioperative care may enhance recovery after surgery. Based on evidence these new routines of perioperative care changed conventional prescriptions in surgery. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the results of a multimodal protocol (ACERTO protocol) in elderly patients. METHODS: Non-randomized historical cohort study was performed at the surgical ward of a tertiary university hospital. One hundred seventeen patients aged 60 and older were submitted to elective abdominal operations under either conventional (n = 42; conventional group, January 2004-June 2005) or a fast-track perioperative protocol named ACERTO (n = 75; ACERTO group, July 2005-December 2007). Main endpoints were preoperative fasting time, postoperative day of re-feeding, volume of intravenous fluids, length of hospital stay and morbidity. RESULTS: The implantation of the ACERTO protocol was followed by a decrease in both preoperative fasting (15 [8-20] vs 4 [2-20] hours, P<0.001) and postoperative day of refeeding (1st [1st-10th] vs 0 [0-5th] PO day; P<0.01), and intravenous fluids (10.7 [2.5-57.5] vs 2.5 [0.5-82] L, P<0.001). The changing of protocols reduced the mean length of hospital stay by 4 days (6[1-43] vs 2[1-97] days; P = 0.002) and surgical site infection rate by 85.7% (19%; 8/42 vs 2.7%; 2/75, P<0.001; relative risk = 1.20; 95% confidence interval = 1.03-1.39). Per-protocol analysis showed that hospital stay in major operations diminished only in patients who completed the protocol (P<0.01). CONCLUSION: The implementation of multidisciplinary routines of the ACERTO protocol diminished both hospitalization and surgical site infection in elderly patients submitted to abdominal operations.

Clinical benefits after the implementation of a multimodal perioperative protocol in elderly patients / Benefícios clínicos após a implementação de um protocolo multimodal perioperatório em paciente idosos

CONTEXT: Multimodal protocol of perioperative care may enhance recovery after surgery. Based on evidence these new routines of perioperative care changed conventional prescriptions in surgery. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the results of a multimodal protocol (ACERTO protocol) in elderly patients. METHODS: Non-randomized historical cohort study was performed at the surgical ward of a tertiary university hospital. One hundred seventeen patients aged 60 and older were submitted to elective abdominal operations under either conventional (n = 42; conventional group, January 2004-June 2005) or a fast-track perioperative protocol named ACERTO (n = 75; ACERTO group, July 2005-December 2007). Main endpoints were preoperative fasting time, postoperative day of re-feeding, volume of intravenous fluids, length of hospital stay and morbidity. RESULTS: The implantation of the ACERTO protocol was followed by a decrease in both preoperative fasting (15 [8-20] vs 4 [2-20] hours, P<0.001) and postoperative day of refeeding (1st [1st-10th] vs 0 [0-5th] PO day; P<0.01), and intravenous fluids (10.7 [2.5-57.5] vs 2.5 [0.5-82] L, P<0.001). The changing of protocols reduced the mean length of hospital stay by 4 days (6[1-43] vs 2[1-97] days; P = 0.002) and surgical site infection rate by 85.7 percent (19 percent; 8/42 vs 2.7 percent; 2/75, P<0.001; relative risk = 1.20; 95 percent confidence interval = 1.03-1.39). Per-protocol analysis showed that hospital stay in major operations diminished only in patients who completed the protocol (P<0.01). CONCLUSION: The implementation of multidisciplinary routines of the ACERTO protocol diminished both hospitalization and surgical site infection in elderly patients submitted to abdominal operations.

CONTEXTO: Protocolos multimodais de cuidados perioperatórios podem acelerar a recuperação pós-operatória. Fundamentadas na medicina baseada em evidência, essas novas rotinas mudam as prescrições convencionais em cirurgia. OBJETIVO: Avaliar os resultados de um protocolo multimodal (protocolo ACERTO) em pacientes idosos. MÉTODOS: Estudo de coorte histórica não aleatório realizado na enfermaria de cirurgia de um hospital universitário terciário. Cento e dezessete pacientes com idade igual ou superior a 60 anos foram submetidos a operações abdominais eletivas sob um protocolo convencional (n = 42; grupo convencional, janeiro 2004-junho 2005) ou um protocolo multimodal denominado ACERTO (n = 75; grupo ACERTO, julho 2005-dezembro 2007). As principais variáveis de resultado foram: tempo de jejum pré-operatório, tempo de realimentação pós-operatória, volume de fluidos intravenosos, tempo de internação e morbidade. RESULTADOS: A implantação do protocolo ACERTO foi acompanhada de queda do tempo de jejum pré-operatório (15 [8-20] vs 4 [2-20] horas, P<0.001), do dia de realimentação pós-operatória (1º [1º-10º] vs 0 [0-5º] dia de pós-operatório; P<0,01) e do volume de fluídos intravenosos (10,7 [2,5-57,5] vs 2,5 [0,5-82] L, P<0,001). A mudança de protocolo reduziu o tempo médio de internação hospitalar em quatro dias (6[1-43] vs 2[1-97] dias; P = 0,002) e a taxa de infecção do sítio cirúrgico em 85,7 por cento (19 por cento; 8/42 vs 2,7 por cento; 2/75, P<0,001; risco relativo = 1,20; 95 por cento intervalo de confiança = 1,03-1,39). Análise per-protocolo mostrou que a permanência hospitalar em operações de grande porte diminuiu apenas no subgrupo de pacientes nos quais o protocolo foi completo (P<0,01). CONCLUSÃO: A implantação de rotinas multidisciplinares do protocolo ACERTO diminuiu a hospitalização e a infecção de sitio cirúrgico em pacientes idosos submetidos a operações abdominais.

Intraluminal injection of short chain fatty acids diminishes intestinal mucosa injury in experimental ischemia-reperfusion.

PURPOSE: Investigated the effect of intraluminal short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) on the intestinal mucosa in the presence of ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI). METHODS: Six blind sacs of the small bowel (3 at the jejunum and 3 at the ileum) were created in ten Wistar rats. The lateral sacs of both bowel regions were subjected to IRI (15/15 minutes) while the medial sacs were let free to receive blood supply. In the lateral sacs, it was injected either a solution containing SCFA (butyrate, propionate and acetate) or pure saline at the bowel lumen. No fluid was injected in the medial sacs. RESULTS: Both at the jejunum and at the ileum the score of the mucosal injury was higher in saline than in control sacs. SCFA treated sacs showed lesser score at the ileum (p = 0.03) but were not significantly different at the jejunum (p = 0.83) when compared with saline sacs. It was found a significant greater number of neutrophils (p < 0.01) in the sacs treated with saline than in the other two sacs in both regions. CONCLUSION: SCFA protect the distal small bowel mucosa and diminishes infiltration of neutrophils to the gut lamina propria in IRI.

Intraluminal injection of short chain fatty acids diminishes intestinal mucosa injury in experimental ischemia-reperfusion

OBJETIVO: Investigou-se o efeito de ácidos graxos de cadeia curta (SCFA) na mucosa intestinal na presença de lesão por isquemia e reperfusão (IRI). MÉTODOS: Foram criados seis sacos fechados no intestino delgado (três no jejuno e três no íleo) em 10 ratos Wistar. Ao sacos laterais de ambas as regiões intestinais foram submetidos a IRI (15/15 minutos) enquanto que o saco medial não sofreu interrupção do suprimento sanguíneo. Nos sacos laterais ambas as regiões injetou-se SCFA ou solução fisiológica na luz intestinal. Nos sacos mediais não se injetou nenhuma solução. RESULTADOS: Tanto no jejuno quanto no íleo o escore de injuria da mucosa intestinal foi mais alto nos sacos tratados com solução salina do que nos controles. Os sacos que receberam SCFA apresentaram menor escore inflamatório no íleo (p=0.03) porém sem diferença no jejuno (p=0.083) quando comparados com os sacos injetados com solução salina. Observou-se um significante maior acumulo de neutrófilos nos sacos tratados com solução salina (p < 0.01) do que nos outros dois sacos em ambas as regiões. CONCLUSAO: Os SCFA protegem a mucosa intestinal distal e diminuem o acumulo de neutrófilos na lamina própria após IRI.

Intestinal intraluminal injection of glutamine increases trolox total equivalent antioxidant capacity (TEAC) in hepatic ischemia-reperfusion.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the effects of intraluminal injection of glutamine on the serum trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity in an experimental model of ischemia-reperfusion of the liver observing the applicability of modifications on the original assay method. METHODS: Thirty Wistar rats underwent laparotomy to perform a 20 cm blind sac of small bowel and occlusion of the hepatic hilo for 30 minutes and reperfusion for 5 minutes. Into the gut sac it was injected glutamine (glutamine group, n=10) or distilled water (control group, n=10). Ten other animals (sham group) underwent laparotomy without artery occlusion. Blood samples were collected for trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity assays in different temperature conditions, reagent quantities and time for spectrophotometer readings. RESULTS: Total antioxidant capacity was significantly greater in glutamine group than in both control group (1.60[1.55-1.77] vs 1.44[1.27-1.53]) and sham group (1.60[1.55-1.77] vs 1.48[1.45-1.59]). CONCLUSION: Glutamine enhanced serum antioxidant capacity. The assay technique consistently reflected the changes in the antioxidant defenses in this experimental model.

Perioperative administration of probiotics: effects on immune response, anastomotic resistance and colonic mucosal trophism.

PURPOSE: To investigate the effects of perioperative administration of diet containing probiotics on the immune response, anastomotic resistance, and colonic mucosal trophism in rats underwent left-sided colonic anastomosis. METHODS: Sixty adults Wistar rats were randomized to two groups (A and B) with 30 animals each to receive or not a diet supplemented with probiotics (Streptococcus thermophilus e Lactobacillus helveticus) during pre- and postoperative period. They underwent laparotomy followed by left colon section and immediate anastomosis. Groups of 15 animals were killed either on the 4th (groups A1 and B1) or 7th PO (groups A2 and B2) days. The outcome variables were serum proteins, albumin, globulins and IgA, length and weight of the colon, mucosal weight, DNA content and anastomotic bursting pressure. RESULTS: Colonic weight was greater in probiotic group compared to controls (1.69+/-0.34 g vs 1.48+/-0.26 g; p<0.05). Total serum proteins and globulin were higher in probiotic animals (proteins = 7.05+/-0.97 g/dl vs 6.57+/-0.66 g/dl e globulins = 5.1+/-0.62 g/dl vs 4.68+/-1.1 g/dl; p<0.05). Serum IgA increased from basal to post-operative days only in the probiotic group (p<0.01). CONCLUSIONS: Perioperative probiotics enhanced the immune response and colonic weight. Probiotics failed to increase anastomotic resistance.

Intestinal intraluminal injection of glutamine increases trolox total equivalent antioxidant capacity (TEAC) in hepatic ischemia-reperfusion

PURPOSE: To evaluate the effects of intraluminal injection of glutamine on the serum trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity in an experimental model of ischemia-reperfusion of the liver observing the applicability of modifications on the original assay method. METHODS: Thirty Wistar rats underwent laparotomy to perform a 20 cm blind sac of small bowel and occlusion of the hepatic hilo for 30 minutes and reperfusion for 5 minutes. Into the gut sac it was injected glutamine (glutamine group, n=10) or distilled water (control group, n=10). Ten other animals (sham group) underwent laparotomy without artery occlusion. Blood samples were collected for trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity assays in different temperature conditions, reagent quantities and time for spectrophotometer readings. RESULTS: Total antioxidant capacity was significantly greater in glutamine group than in both control group (1,60[1,55-1,77] vs 1,44[1,27-1,53]) and sham group (1,60[1,55-1,77] vs 1,48[1,45-1,59]). CONCLUSION: Glutamine enhanced serum antioxidant capacity. The assay technique consistently reflected the changes in the antioxidant defenses in this experimental model.

OBJETIVO: Avaliar em um modelo experimental de isquemia-reperfusão hepática os efeitos da injeção intraluminal de glutamina na capacidade anti-oxidante total em equivalência ao trolox (TEAC) do plasma, verificando a aplicabilidade de modificações ao método original de dosagem. MÉTODOS: Trinta ratos Wistar foram submetidos a laparotomia e confecção de uma alça fechada de 20 cm de comprimento envolvendo o intestinal delgado distal seguido do clampeamento do hilo hepático por 30 minutos e reperfusão por 5 minutos. Na alça fechada foi injetada glutamina (grupo glutamina; n=10) ou água destilada (grupo controle; n=10). Em dez animais (grupo sham) não foi realizado clampeamento hilar. Coletou-se sangue para dosagem da capacidade antioxidante total em equivalência ao trolox em condições modificadas de temperatura, proporções relativas dos reagentes e tempo de leitura sob espectrofotometria. RESULTADOS: A capacidade antioxidante total foi significantemente maior (p<0.05) no grupo glutamina que no grupo controle (1,60[1,55-1,77] vs 1,44[1,27-1,53]) e grupo sham (1,60[1,55-1,77] vs 1,48[1,45-1,59]). Não houve diferenças estatísticas entre o grupo controle e o grupo sham. CONCLUSÃO: A glutamina melhorou a capacidade anti-oxidante total plasmática. O método de dosagem refletiu consistentemente alterações na defesa anti-oxidante nesse modelo experimental.

Perioperative administration of probiotics: effects on immune response, anastomotic resistance and colonic mucosal trophism

PURPOSE: To investigate the effects of perioperative administration of diet containing probiotics on the immune response, anastomotic resistance, and colonic mucosal trophism in rats underwent left-sided colonic anastomosis. METHODS: Sixty adults Wistar rats were randomized to two groups (A and B) with 30 animals each to receive or not a diet supplemented with probiotics (Streptococcus thermophilus e Lactobacillus helveticus) during pre- and postoperative period. They underwent laparotomy followed by left colon section and immediate anastomosis. Groups of 15 animals were killed either on the 4th (groups A1 and B1) or 7th PO (groups A2 and B2) days. The outcome variables were serum proteins, albumin, globulins and IgA, lenght and weight of the colon, mucosal weight, DNA content and anastomotic bursting pressure. RESULTS: Colonic weight was greater in probiotic group compared to controls (1,69±0,34g vs 1,48±0,26g; p<0.05). Total serum proteins and globulin were higher in probiotic animals (proteins = 7,05±0,97g/dl vs 6,57±0,66g/dl e globulins = 5,1±0,62g/dl vs 4,68±1,1g/dl; p<0.05). Serum IgA increased from basal to post-operative days only in the probiotic group (p<0.01). CONCLUSIONS: Perioperative probiotics enhanced the immune response and colonic weight. Probiotics failed to increase anastomotic resistance.

OBJETIVO: Investigar os efeitos da administração peroperatória de dieta acrescida de probióticos sobre a resposta imunológica, resistência anástomótica e trofismo da mucosa colônica em ratos submetidos a anastomose do cólon esquerdo. MÉTODOS: 60 ratos Wistar adultos foram randomizados em dois grupos (A e B), cada um com 30 animais, de acordo com o uso ou não de suplementação pré e pós-operatória de probióticos (Streptococcus thermophilus e Lactobacillus helveticus). Foram submetidos a laparotomia com secção e anastomose imediata do cólon esquerdo, e sacrificados em grupos de 15 animais no 4° (grupos A1 e B1) ou 7° dia de pós-operatório (grupos A2 e B2). As variáveis estudadas foram concentração plasmática de proteínas totais, albumina, globulinas e IgA; peso e comprimento do cólon sem fezes, peso da mucosa, conteúdo de DNA da mucosa e pressão anastomótica de ruptura. RESULTADOS: Observou-se aumento do peso do intestino grosso sem fezes no grupo A (probiótico) quando comparado ao controle (1,69±0,34g vs 1,48±0,26g; p<0.05). Houve aumento de proteínas totais e globulinas no grupo probiótico (proteínas = 7,05±0,97g/dl vs 6,57±0,66g/dl e globulinas = 5,1±0,62g/dl vs 4,68±1,1g/dl; p<0.05). A IgA aumentou entre os níveis basais e o pós-operatório apenas no grupo probiótico (p<0.01). As demais variáveis não apresentaram diferenças entre diversos grupos estudados. CONCLUSÃO: O uso peri-operatório de probióticos melhorou a resposta imunológica e o peso do cólon. Não houve diferença na resistência anastomotica.

Modificações morfométricas e do conteúdo protéico na obstrução experimental do cólon esquerdo / Morphometric and protein content modifications during experimental obstruction of the left colon

OBJETIVO: Pouco se conhece a respeito das alterações colônicas que ocorrem em resposta à obstrução. O objetivo deste trabalho foi investigar as modificações morfológicas e do conteúdo de colágeno e proteínas no cólon obstruído. MÉTODO: 36 ratos Wistar foram submetidos à ligadura obstrutiva do cólon esquerdo com um fio de algodão 2-0 a 2,5cm da reflexão peritoneal. Grupos de seis animais foram sacrificados logo em seguida (0h; grupo controle) ou após 6, 12, 24, 48 e 72 horas. O comprimento e o peso do cólon foram mensurados, assim como os diâmetros 1cm acima e abaixo da ligadura; na flexura esplênica e ceco. Desses mesmos pontos foram obtidas biópsias para quantificação da concentração de hidroxiprolina e proteínas. RESULTADOS: O comprimento colônico diminuiu entre a obstrução e as observações de 6, 12 e 24 horas, retornando a valores iniciais após 48 e 72 horas. No cólon proximal à ligadura ocorreu aumento de diâmetro a partir de 6 horas, 1cm acima, após 12 horas na flexura esplênica e após 24 horas no ceco. O peso do cólon aumentou após 48h (4,6 ± 0,5g vs 3,4 ± 1,1g; p < 0,05). Abaixo da ligadura obstrutiva não ocorreu variação no peso das biópsias, nas dosagens de hidroxiprolina e proteínas. Proximalmente, houve aumento no peso dos espécimes após 6 horas e na concentração de hidroxiprolina após 24 horas. A dosagem de proteínas diminuiu em todos os segmentos proximais. CONCLUSÕES: O cólon num primeiro momento se contrai para depois alongar-se, distender-se e tornar-se mais pesado. Ocorre queda na concentração normal de proteína tecidual e uma elevação transitória seguida de diminuição de colágeno na parede colônica.

BACKGROUND: The colonic response to obstruction is poorly understood. The aim of this study was to investigate the colonic morphology and the variation of collagen and protein content during the development of a left-sided colonic obstruction. METHOD: 36 Wistar rats underwent a ligature obstruction of the left colon. Groups of 6 animals were killed immediately (0h; control group) or after 6, 12, 24, 48 and 72hs after the obstruction. The length and weight of the colon were registered as well as the colonic diameter in four segments: at 1cm above and below the ligature, at the splenic flexure and at the ceccum. Biopsies of these sites, containing all layers of the colon, were assayed for hydroxyproline and protein concentration. RESULTS: The colonic length decreased from 6 to 24hs after obstruction, returning to normal values after 48hs. Proximally to the ligature, a significant increase of the diameter was observed at 1cm above the ligature after 6hs, at the splenic flexure, after 12hs, and at the ceccum, 24hs later. Colonic weight was higher after 48hs (4,6 ± 0,5g vs. 3,4 ± 1,1g; p < 0,05). Below the ligature there was no variation in the weight of the specimens, neither in the hydroxyproline nor in the protein concentrations. Above the ligature however, the specimens became significantly heavier after 6hs and higher in hydroxyproline centent after 24hs. Protein content diminished in all proximal sites. CONCLUSIONS: The obstructed colon initially contracts and then progressively enlarges, dilates, and becomes heavier. After obstruction, colonic protein concentration progressively diminishes, although the hydroxyproline content transitorily increases.