Enhanced Recovery Pathways for Flap-Based Reconstruction: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) pathways are known to improve patient outcomes after surgery. In recent years, there have been growing interest in ERAS for reconstructive surgery. Objectives To systematically review and summarise literature on the key components and outcomes of ERAS pathways for autologous flap-based reconstruction. Data Sources Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, MEDLINE, EMBASE, Current Controlled Trials, World Health Organization International Clinical Trials Registry Platform and reference lists of relevant studies. Inclusion Criteria All primary studies of ERAS pathways for free and pedicled flap-based reconstructions reported in the English language. Outcome Measures The primary outcome measure was length of stay. Secondary outcomes were complication rates including total flap loss, partial flap loss, unplanned reoperation within 30 days, readmission to hospital within 30 days, surgical site infections and medical complications. Results Sixteen studies were included. Eleven studies describe ERAS pathways for autologous breast reconstructions and five for autologous head and neck reconstructions. Length of stay was lower in ERAS groups compared to control groups (mean reduction, 1.57 days; 95% CI, - 2.15 to - 0.99). Total flap loss, partial flap loss, unplanned reoperations, readmissions, surgical site infections and medical complication rates were similar between both groups. Compliance rates were poorly reported. Conclusion ERAS pathways for flap-based reconstruction reduce length of stay without increasing complication rates. ERAS pathways should be adapted to each institution according to their needs, resources and caseload. There is potential for the development of ERAS pathways for chest wall, perineum and lower limb reconstruction.