Potential benefits of fast-track concepts in paediatric colorectal surgery

Abstract Background Structured care pathways optimising peri-operative care have been shown to significantly enhance post-operative recovery. We aim to determine if enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) principles could provide benefit for paediatric patients undergoing major colorectal resection for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Methods Children undergoing elective bowel resection for IBD at a regional paediatric unit using standard methods of peri-operative care were matched to adult cases from an associated tertiary referral university hospital already using an ERAS program. Cases were matched for disease type, gender, operative procedure, and ASA grade. Results Forty-four children undergoing fifty procedures were identified. Thirty-four were matched to adult cases. Total length of stay in the paediatric group was significantly longer than in the adult group (6 vs. 9 days; P = 0.001). Paediatric patients were slower to start solid diet (1 vs. 4 days; P  Conclusion Potentially, application of ERAS in paediatric surgery could accelerate recovery and reduce length of post-operative stay thereby improving quality and efficiency of care.