A prospective randomized controlled trial of multimodal perioperative management protocol in patients undergoing elective colorectal resection for cancer.
OBJECTIVE
A prospective randomized controlled trial (RCT) of multimodal perioperative management protocol in patients undergoing elective colorectal resection for cancer.


OBJECTIVE
This study evaluates the use of a multimodal package in colorectal cancer surgery in the context of an RCT.


METHODS
Patients for elective resection for colorectal cancer were offered trial entry. Participants were stratified by sex and requirement for a total mesorectal excision and centrally randomized. Multimodal patients received intravenous fluid restriction, unrestricted oral intake with prokinetic agents, early ambulation, and fixed regimen epidural analgesia. Control patients received intravenous fluids to prevent oliguria, restricted oral intake until return of bowel motility, and weaning regimen epidural analgesia. Adherence to both regimens was reinforced using a daily checklist and protocol guidance sheets. Discharge decision was made using pre-agreed criteria. The primary endpoint was postoperative stay, and achievement of independence milestones. Secondary endpoints were postoperative complications, readmission rates, and mortality. Analysis was by intention to treat.


RESULTS
Seventy patients were recruited. Approximately one fourth underwent TME. Median ages were similar (69.3 vs. 73.0 years). The median stay was significantly reduced in the multimodal group (5 vs. 7 days; P < 0.001, Mann-Whitney U test). Patients in the control arm were 2.5 times as likely to require a postoperative stay of more than 5 days. Patients in the multimodal group had less cardiorespiratory and anastomotic complications but more readmissions. There were 2 deaths, both controls.


CONCLUSIONS
This RCT provides level 1b evidence that a multimodal management protocol can significantly reduce postoperative stay following colorectal cancer surgery. Morbidity and mortality are not increased.
Khoo
Chun Kheng
CK
Department of Surgery, Musgrove Park Hospital, Taunton and Somerset NHS Trust, Taunton, UK.
Vickery
Christopher J
CJ
Forsyth
Nicola
N
Vinall
Nina S
NS
Eyre-Brook
Ian A
IA
D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D015360:Analgesia, Epidural; D015179:Colorectal Neoplasms / Q000601:surgery*; D019091:Critical Pathways; D003672:Defecation / Q000187:drug effects; D004032:Diet; D004434:Early Ambulation; D005260:Female; D005440:Fluid Therapy / Q000379:methods; D006801:Humans; D007902:Length of Stay / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011183:Postoperative Complications; D011446:Prospective Studies; D018709:Statistics, Nonparametric; D016896:Treatment Outcome