Enhanced recovery after bariatric surgery: Implementation of program and clinical outcomes from a bariatric surgery and metabolic diseases reference center

Abstract Background: Enhanced recovery after bariatric surgery (ERABS) protocols involve a series of multimodal perioperative procedures based on evidence designed to reduce physiological stress, improve recovery, and reduce costs on medical attention by decreasing length of hospital stay (length of stay [LOS]). Objective: The objective of the study was to report the viability and results of the ERABS application in a reference bariatric center. Materials and methods: A prospective, observational, and descriptive study on bariatric procedures conducted over 12 months in the ERABS context which includes pre-procedure, intraprocedure, and post-procedure measures. The collected data include demographic data, comorbidity, morbimortality, LOS, and readmission to hospital. Results: Sixty-four patients within a median of 38.8 ± 9.5 years and 44.1 ± 6.20 kg/m2 BMI underwent surgery. Fifty-five (85.93%) were Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) cases and 9 (14.06%) were sleeve gastrectomy (SG). Related comorbidities were hypertension 37%, diabetes 34%, dyslipidemia 23%, and obstructive sleep apnea 21%. Two (3.12%) patients developed post-operative morbidity (respiratory and thromboembolic complications). LOS for RYGB was 1.16 ± 0.97 and 1 ± 0 days for SG. The successful discharge rate on the 1st day after procedure was 96% and 100%, respectively. Readmission to hospital within a 30-day period presented itself on 4 patients (6.25%). Conclusion: Applying ERABS protocols is feasible, safe, morbidity low, LOS acceptable, and a low readmission rate within 30 days.