Enhanced Recovery Protocol for Colon Surgery Now Offered by Lincoln Surgical Associates!
The enhanced recovery protocol for colon surgery was first developed in Europe and is now gaining momentum in the U.S.
Kevin T. Barnett, MD, FACS, is the driving force behind instituting this colon surgery recovery protocol in area hospitals.
"The most common surgeries this protocol will be used for are diverticulitis, colon cancer, or some kind of colon polyp," Dr. Barnett said. "Studies are showing that the enhanced recovery protocol is really beneficial for our patients."
Our team performs
800Patient Benefits
- Shorter length of hospital stay
- Faster recovery
- Fewer complications
- Patient satisfaction
Looking at Entire Surgery Process
This multi-modal program looks at the perioperative period of colon surgery.
Preoperative
Starting with the preoperative phase, we focus on education and getting patients healthier through smoking cessation and not drinking alcohol. In addition, patients can drink liquids until a few hours before surgery, and we provide them carbohydrate drinks prior to surgery to help with nausea and vomiting and to reduce the stress of the procedure.
During Surgery
During the surgery, we use minimally invasive techniques and fewer narcotics, which can slow the digestive tract. We also work with anesthesia to direct the fluid replacement based on individualized patient needs.
Postoperative
Postoperative goals are early ambulation and eating and drinking sooner. Achieving these goals can help return the digestive tract to normal function as soon as possible after surgery. We will also work with the patient and pain management to find non-narcotic pain control options after surgery.
Refer Your Patient
If you have a patient who needs surgery after a colonoscopy and wants to recover quickly, please call 618.277.7400 to refer them today!