Fast Track Surgery

Abstract

February 2004

Section 1 Basic Surgical and Perioperative Considerations

10 Fast Track Surgery

Henrik Kehlet, M.D., Ph.D.
Professor, Department of Medicine, University of Copenhagen School of Medicine, and Chief Surgeon, Section of Surgical Gastroenterology, Kobenhavns Kommunes Hvidovre Hospital

Douglas W. Wilmore, M.D.
Frank Sawyer Professor of Surgery, Harvard Medical School, and Senior Staff Surgeon, Department of Surgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital

Fast track surgery is a comprehensive approach to the elective surgical patient that is designed to accelerate recovery, reduce morbidity, and shorten convalescence. The methods by which these goals are achieved include preoperative patient education; optimization of anesthesia; reduction of surgical stress; control of nausea, vomiting, and ileus; postoperative pain management; appropriate use of tubes, drains, and catheters; good nursing care; early resumption of oral nutrition; early postoperative mobilization; and careful discharge planning. Results from studies assessing fast track surgery are discussed, and future developments are considered. This chapter contains 1 table and 113 references.

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