ERAS

What is ERAS (enhanced recovery after surgery)?

ERAS is an evidence-based system designed to improve your recovery after colorectal surgery. The team at Colon and Rectal Surgeons of Greater Hartford use ERAS to:

• Minimize surgical trauma and pain
• Decrease your hospital stay
• Reduce surgical risk
• Improve your recovery

ERAS not only includes the team at Colon and Rectal Surgeons of Greater Hartford but requires your active participation, as well as other specialists involved in your care like physical therapists and anesthesiologists.  For more information see the ERAS pamphlet under the Forms section of our website. 

Am I a good candidate for ERAS?

The team at Colon and Rectal Surgeons of Greater Hartford specializes in colon and rectal health, and recommend ERAS for every patient undergoing colorectal surgery. The team discusses the specifics of ERAS with you during your surgical consultation, so you know what to expect and how it benefits your recovery.

What can I expect when participating in ERAS?

ERAS is designed, so you get the best results from your colorectal surgery. The program can include:

Pre-operative interventions

Before undergoing any surgery, the team at Colon and Rectal Surgeons of Greater Hartford carry out a comprehensive evaluation so they can confidently determine that surgery makes the best choice for you.

Though surgery might be needed to treat your colorectal condition, if your health or nutritional status is poor, the team could suggest postponing it until you’re in better health.  

Some of the preoperative aspects of ERAS include immunonutrition, carbohydrate drinks prior to surgery and a special body cleanse to decrease bacteria on your skin. 

The preoperative intervention also allows the team to review the details of the procedure with you, how to prepare, and what to expect afterward.

Operative interventions

Operative interventions refer to the specific steps the team at Colon and Rectal Surgeons of Greater Hartford takes before, during, and after your surgery.

Post-operative interventions

The postoperative interventions focus on your recovery. Immediately following your colorectal surgery, the team takes you to the recovery room for monitoring and treatment of post-anesthesia nausea and/or vomiting. Once you’re stable, the team will get you eating and walking usually on the night of surgery.   

After you’re sent home, the team schedules follow-up appointments to monitor your recovery and provide the expert care needed to help you get back quickly to doing the things you enjoy.

Colon and Rectal Surgeons of Greater Hartford is the largest colon and rectal surgery group in New England and uses ERAS to ensure optimal outcomes. To schedule a consultation with the experienced team, contact the office by phone or book an appointment online today.