Impact of ERAS Protocol on Postoperative Recovery and Complications in Patients Undergoing Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy: A Prospective Comparative Analysis.

BACKGROUND

Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) is a proven perioperative strategy that improves outcomes in major surgeries, but its role in routine procedures like cholecystectomy remains underexplored. To compare perioperative practices and postoperative complications between ERAS and conventional protocols in laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

This prospective, randomized study was conducted over 18 months in a tertiary care hospital. A total of 100 patients were divided equally into ERAS and control groups. The ERAS group received structured interventions including pre-op counseling, carb loading, epidural anesthesia, and early mobilization. Outcomes such as pain, PONV and surgical site infections (SSI) were assessed.

RESULTS

ERAS patients showed 100% compliance with protocol elements and had faster recovery milestones. Post-op pain (4% vs. 22%), PONV (2% vs. 16%), and SSI (2% vs. 12%) were significantly lower in the ERAS group. The difference in SSI was statistically significant (P = 0.046).

CONCLUSION

ERAS protocol notably enhances recovery and minimizes complications in cholecystectomy. It offers a practical and cost-effective upgrade over traditional care even for routine surgeries. Wider adoption and multicentric validation are recommended.