Enhanced recovery protocol versus standard protocol for patients undergoing radical cystectomy: results of a prospective randomized study

Background: To assess patients undergoing radical cystectomy using enhanced recovery protocol and standard protocol in terms of intraoperative and postoperative outcomes and complications. Results: All operative and postoperative complications were recorded. In group B, time to normal bowel activity ranged from 1 to 4 days, and the mean was 1.8 days (+/- 1.02), while it ranged from 1 to 5 days, and the mean was 3.17 days (+/- 1.14) in group A which was statistically significant (p value <0.001).The length of hospital stay in group B ranged from 6 to 50 days, the mean was 13.16 days (+/- 7.83), while it ranged from 8 to 35 days, and the mean was 14.71 days (+/- 5.78) in group A which was statistically significant (p value = 0.033). Postoperative mortality was similar in both groups. Conclusion: In patients undergoing radical cystectomy, enhanced recovery protocol is considered as a safe procedure and not associated with any increase in intraoperative and postoperative complications compared to standard protocol. The length of hospital stay and time to return to full diet are reduced.