Evidence-based ERAS programs, originally put forward to cover colorectal surgery, are now available for nearly every surgical specialty and procedure. Details of these programs can be found at
Best Practice in Surgery, the
Enhanced Recovery After Surgery Society, the
American Society for Enhanced Recovery and
Enhanced Recovery Canada.
When it comes to organ transplantation, the evidence is far less informative and to accept guidelines from other surgical specialties is fraught with difficulties1. However, the potential for education and to further research will be supported by a comprehensive program including pre, intra and postoperative suggestions for management. Recognizing both the benefits and limitations of ERAL, we have developed an outline for the management of the liver transplant patient. Where possible, evidence is cited either as primary references or as a reference to guidelines and scientific literature reviews.
Please use the ERAL program as a tool for education and focused research. When you are asked to participate in data collection, remember that the goal is the advancement or enhancement of our patient care.
1 Memtsoudis SG, Poeran J, Kehlet H. Enhanced Recovery After Surgery in the United States: From Evidence-Based Practice to Uncertain Science?
JAMA. 2019.
