title: Enhanced Recovery Pathways in Gynecology and Gynecologic Oncology.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  Enhanced recovery programs (ERPs) are considered standard of care across a variety of surgical disciplines, but ERPs have not been widely adopted in gynecology.
  
  
  OBJECTIVE
  The aim of this study was to describe ERP principles and the role of ERPs in gynecology and gynecologic oncology.
  
  
  METHODS
  Comprehensive literature search was performed using MEDLINE, the Cochrane Collaboration Database, and PubMed.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Meta-analyses of a substantial number of randomized controlled trials have shown that implementation of ERP protocols is associated with decreased length of hospital stay, a decrease in rates of postoperative complication, decreased morbidity, and cost savings while preserving patient satisfaction and quality of life.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  High-quality evidence exists for improved outcomes among patients in ERPs. Enhanced recovery programs save resources and costs across the health care system. As quality metrics and bundled payments increase in health care, ERPs will have increasing prominence.
authors.affiliation: Clinical Fellow and Physician, Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology.
authors.forename: Emma L
authors.initials: EL
authors.lastname: Barber
authors.affiliation: Professor and Physician, Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, and Lineberger Clinical Cancer Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC.
authors.forename: Linda
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Van Le
mesh_terms: D057785:Catheters; D004032:Diet; D004322:Drainage; D004434:Early Ambulation; D005260:Female; D005833:Genital Neoplasms, Female / Q000601:surgery*; D013509:Gynecologic Surgical Procedures / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000191:economics / Q000379:methods / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D006801:Humans; D059408:Pain Management; D011300:Preoperative Care; D014882:Water-Electrolyte Balance