Implementation of the scientific evidence into daily practice--example from fast-track colonic cancer surgery.
OBJECTIVE
To report the implementation and results of fast-track surgery for colonic cancer in the daily routine.


METHODS
A total of 131 consecutive patients scheduled for elective colonic cancer resections entered a fast-track perioperative course after thorough information. The regimen contained: no preoperative bowel cleansing, transverse and small abdominal incisions, no drains nor tubes, mobilization and normal meal the evening on the day of surgery, epidural analgesia, oral laxatives, and a planned discharge on postoperative day 3.


RESULTS
Median number of days postoperative in hospital were 4 days (range 1-46). Eighty-nine per cent experienced an uncomplicated course, 3% were readmitted within 30 days, and the 30-day mortality was 3.8%.


CONCLUSIONS
Fast-track surgery is feasible in an unselected patient population scheduled for elective colon cancer resections without compromising quality.
Hammer
J
J
Department of Surgery K, Bispebjerg Hospital, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.
Harling
H
H
Wille-Jørgensen
P
P
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D000698:Analgesia / Q000379:methods; D000758:Anesthesia / Q000379:methods; D003110:Colonic Neoplasms / Q000601:surgery*; D013505:Digestive System Surgical Procedures / Q000379:methods*; D017558:Elective Surgical Procedures; D019317:Evidence-Based Medicine; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007902:Length of Stay; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011182:Postoperative Care / Q000379:methods; D011183:Postoperative Complications; D016896:Treatment Outcome