Erschienen in:
22.12.2017 | Original Article
The Effectiveness of a Clinical Pathway in Liver Surgery: a Case-Control Study
verfasst von:
Sander Ovaere, Isabelle Boscart, Isabelle Parmentier, Pieter Jan Steelant, Tino Gabriel, Junior Allewaert, Hans Pottel, Franky Vansteenkiste, Mathieu D’Hondt
Erschienen in:
Journal of Gastrointestinal Surgery
|
Ausgabe 4/2018
Einloggen, um Zugang zu erhalten
Abstract
Background
In the field of liver surgery, evidence on the effectiveness of clinical pathways based on ERAS principles is limited.
Methods
This is a single-center observational study from a prospectively maintained database. Two cohorts were formed of all patients undergoing liver surgery during a defined period before (traditional management) and after introduction of a clinical pathway. Additionally, a case-match analysis—based on approach, tumor location, and Brisbane classification of resection—was performed. A cost analysis and patient satisfaction questionnaire were carried out.
Results
In both the overall analysis (n = 229) as well as the case-match analysis (n = 100), hospital stay was significantly reduced from 8 to 4 days and from 6.5 to 4 days, respectively (p < 0.05). Postoperative morbidity (traditional management 11/50 vs clinical pathway 5/50; p = 1.00) and readmission rate did not increase. Cost analysis showed a significant decrease in postoperative costs in favor of the clinical pathway (traditional management €3666.7 vs clinical pathway €1912.2; p < 0.001). Overall, 92.3% of the survey questions were answered with satisfied (86.0%) or very satisfied (6.3%).
Discussion
Implementation of clinical pathway for liver surgery is feasible and safe. A clinical pathway significantly reduces hospital stay without increasing postoperative morbidity and readmission rates. Postoperative costs are significantly reduced. Patient satisfaction is high.