New guidelines published on enhanced recovery after colon, rectal surgery

Editor's Note

The American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons and the Society of American Gastrointestinal Endoscopic Surgeons have jointly published new clinical practice guidelines on enhanced recovery after colon and rectal surgery.

The enhanced recovery protocol is multidisciplinary, including physicians, nurses, physical therapists, and dietitians and involves all aspects of care from preoperative through surgery and aftercare.

Having two societies jointly review the enormous body of work in this field and issue guidelines has been a tremendous undertaking, the authors say. The guidelines will be a key resource for physicians and patients.

This clinical practice guideline represents a collaborative effort between the American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons (ASCRS) and the Society of American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgeons (SAGES). The ASCRS Clinical Practice Guidelines Committee is composed of society members who are chosen because they have demonstrated expertise in the specialty of colon and rectal surgery.