Fast track surgery and preoperative optimization

Enhanced recovery pathways have been rapidly embraced by surgeons as a mechanism for improving patient care and driving down complications and costs. They seek to employ a holistic approach, reviewing all aspects of patient management, to improve care. Many components are dissimilar to traditional surgical teaching, involving early mobilization and enteral nutrition, as well as a strong emphasis on fluid balance and pain management. By addressing all components of the patient pathway from preoperative through to post-surgery, significant improvement in outcomes can be achieved for a range of surgical procedures.