Lancet
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Clinical Trial
Recovery after laparoscopic colonic surgery with epidural analgesia, and early oral nutrition and mobilisation.
The rate of postoperative recovery is determined by pain, stress-induced organ dysfunction, and limitations in conventional postoperative care. We attempted to provide "stress-free" colonic resection for neoplastic disease in eight elderly high-risk patients by a combination of laparoscopically assisted surgery, epidural analgesia, and early oral nutrition and mobilisation. ⋯ Postoperative fatigue and impairment in functional activity were avoided. Major advances in postoperative recovery can be achieved by early aggressive perioperative care in elderly high-risk patients undergoing colonic surgery.