Fast tracking in pediatric surgery

Fast track protocols are justified for several pediatric surgical procedures. Particular operations on neonates and babies require specialized postoperative care. In these very young patients, no benefit can be expected from rigid fast track concepts. Many workflows in pediatric surgery have already been optimized with a view toward very short hospital stay. The published experiences with fast track protocols in pediatric surgery show that the method is feasible and safe. Complication and readmission rates are very low. Perioperative adjustments, shorter fasting periods, and the use of new analgetics are desirable in pediatric fast track protocols. Particularly for children, customizing protocols to the individual patients' requirements must be guaranteed.