From the Guidelines
Optimal post-operative recovery requires following an enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocol, which includes early postoperative mobilization, to reduce the postoperative complication rate and the length of stay. This approach is supported by the most recent and highest quality study available, which emphasizes the importance of early mobilization and multimodal care in reducing morbidity and mortality after surgery 1.
Key strategies for optimal recovery include:
- Taking prescribed pain medications as directed, typically including acetaminophen or NSAIDs for mild pain, and opioids for severe pain, but only as long as necessary due to addiction risk
- Keeping the surgical site clean according to instructions, typically using mild soap and water, and watching for signs of infection like increasing pain, redness, swelling, or discharge
- Resting adequately while gradually increasing activity as recommended—usually starting with short walks and slowly progressing to normal activities over days or weeks
- Maintaining proper nutrition with a balanced diet rich in protein, fruits, vegetables, and adequate hydration
- Attending all follow-up appointments to monitor healing progress and address complications early
These strategies promote tissue healing, reduce inflammation, prevent complications like blood clots and pneumonia, and ultimately lead to faster recovery and better outcomes. The use of ERAS protocols has been shown to be effective in reducing morbidity and mortality after surgery, and is recommended by recent guidelines 1.
It is also important to note that the success of surgery does not depend exclusively on technical surgical skills, but also on metabolic interventional therapy, taking into account the ability of the patient to carry a metabolic load and to provide appropriate nutritional support 1.
Overall, following an ERAS protocol and adhering to the key strategies outlined above can help optimize post-operative recovery and reduce the risk of complications.
From the Research
Post-Operative Care Strategies
To achieve optimal recovery after surgery, several strategies can be employed. These include:
- Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) programs, which have been shown to reduce post-operative morbidity and mortality 2, 3
- Nutrition, activity, opioid-sparing analgesia, hydration, and overall best practices, which can help patients recover more quickly 3
- Patient engagement in perioperative care, which can improve outcomes 3
- Energy-requiring processes to return to normality and wholeness, including regaining control over physical, psychological, social, and habitual functions 4
Pain Management
Effective pain management is crucial for optimal recovery. This can be achieved through:
- Adequate pain management, which can prevent medical complications such as pneumonia, deep vein thrombosis, infection, and delayed healing 5
- Patient involvement in decisions regarding their own treatment, particularly when considering alternative options 5
- Better professional education and training of multidisciplinary pain management teams 5
- Optimizing treatment, such as using synergistic analgesia, patient-controlled analgesia, and minimally invasive surgery 5
Patient Preferences
Patients have certain preferences when it comes to immediate postoperative recovery. These include: