title: Colostomy closure after Hartmann's procedure with fast-track rehabilitation.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  The aim of this study was to assess the effect of postoperative multimodal rehabilitation after colostomy closure after Hartmann's procedure.
  
  
  METHODS
  Twenty-seven consecutive patients scheduled for colostomy closure after Hartmann's procedure received continuous postoperative epidural analgesia, laxative, and enforced oral liquids, protein drinks, and mobilization.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Defecation occurred at a median 2 days postoperatively. Mean and median postoperative stay was 3 days, with two readmissions (1 anastomotic dehiscence and 1 social) increasing mean total 1-month hospital stay to 4.3 (median, 3) days. No other complications occurred except three superficial wound infections.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Postoperative hospital stay and morbidity may be reduced with multimodal rehabilitation after open colostomy closure after Hartmann's resection.
authors.affiliation: Department of Surgical Gastroenterology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Hvidore, Denmark.
authors.forename: Linda
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Basse
authors.forename: Dorthe Hjort
authors.initials: DH
authors.lastname: Jacobsen
authors.forename: Per
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Billesbølle
authors.forename: Henrik
authors.initials: H
authors.lastname: Kehlet
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000714:Anastomosis, Surgical; D003108:Colonic Diseases / Q000601:surgery*; D003125:Colostomy / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D003672:Defecation; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007902:Length of Stay; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009017:Morbidity; D010359:Patient Readmission; D011446:Prospective Studies; D013530:Surgical Wound Infection