Effect of Enhanced Recovery Protocol on Postoperative Recovery Criteria and Functional Outcomes of Women Undergoing Gynecological Oncology Surgery

Abstract

Background: Gynecological oncology surgeries are often associated with significant impairment in postoperative recovery, delayed functional recovery and prolonged hospitalization. Enhanced Recovery Protocol (ERP) integrate evidence-based perioperative interventions to avoid unnecessary interventions, and promote faster recovery in women undergoing gynecological oncology surgery.
Aim: This study sought to assess the effect of Enhanced Recovery Protocol on postoperative recovery metrics and functional outcomes in women having gynecological oncology procedures.
Methods: A quasi- experimental (intervention &control group) design was utilized, at the females’ oncology surgical wards and operating theater at Oncology Center Mansoura University. On 102 women chosen by purposive sample according to eligibility criteria from the predetermined setting by using structured interview questionnaire sheet which consisted of demographic characteristics, current surgical history of gynecological oncology women, postoperative recovery criteria sheet and women's functional outcomes sheet.
Results: There was a highly statistically significant difference between the studied groups related to postoperative recovery criteria and functional outcomes, in which women in the intervention group showed markedly earlier recovery across most parameters and had full independence on all items of physical activity and exhibiting greater independence in self-care activity than in the control group.
Conclusion and Recommendations: The study concluded that (ERP) improved postoperative recovery criteria and functional outcomes of women undergoing gynecological oncology surgery. Therefore, providing women with clear and simple education about ERP recommendations is important. Encouraging women to participate actively in their own care may improve their adherence to the protocol, support faster recovery, and reduce the burden on healthcare services.