Enhanced recovery pathway following radical cystectomy.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: To evaluate perioperative enhanced recovery protocols for patients undergoing radical cystectomy and urinary diversion and describe our unique protocol.

RECENT FINDINGS: Radical cystectomy is a morbid procedure with rather long hospital stay and complication rates. The main reason for lengthy hospital stay is bowel complication including paralytic ileus. Different perioperative care plans have been recommended to decrease hospital stay and complication rate. Most of this recovery plans focus on enhancing gastrointestinal function recovery, pain management and early mobility.

SUMMARY: Enhanced recovery after surgery protocol includes pre, intra and postoperative evidence-based modifications for improving perioperative care of cystectomy patients. Significant shortening of hospital stay without increasing early complication or readmission rate could be achieved safely in most of the patients.