Increasingly in France, surgeons are implementing accelerated recovery after surgery (Raac). It allows the patient to return home more quickly, and to make him more independent. Who is concerned ? Is it effective? Why Doctor is reviewing this technique.
After surgery, many patients want to go home as soon as possible. Some doctors, like at the Strasbourg University Hospital for example, have the same objective and practice accelerated recovery after surgery (Raac).
The Raac, a real care pathway
First of all, you should know that accelerated recovery after surgery is a global care approach, which works in three phases: before, during and after the operation. The key objectives are to inform the patient and train him in the procedure, anticipate the organization of care and the discharge of the patient, reduce the consequences of surgical stress, control pain in all situations and promote and stimulate the autonomy of patients, as explained by the High Authority of Health (HAS).
Concretely, the accelerated recovery after surgery is illustrated by eliminating medications usually given, avoiding having the patient do a prolonged fast before the operation, favoring local anesthesia against pain.
Who is concerned ?
The Raac was originally developed in the 1990s by a Danish team. Initially, it was intended for major operations in colorectal and digestive surgeries. Today, this practice has extended to urology (cystectomy, nephrectomy, prostatectomy), cardiovascular and thoracic surgery, orthopedics (total hip and knee prostheses), spinal surgery, gynecology ( caesarean section, hysterectomy, oophorectomy). In addition, she is currently in France for cataract surgery, strabismus surgery or for dental extractions.
Save money
One of the advantages of accelerated recovery after surgery is that it is a cost-effective device, because patients stay in hospital for less time. Out of 1,100 patients operated on for a hip prosthesis, the length of stay thanks to the Raac is 3.3 days on average, compared to 7.5 usually. In addition, the re-hospitalization rate is 3.8%, against 13.2% on average.
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