Fast-track surgery may reduce complications following major colonic surgery.

Purpose: Fast-track (enhanced recovery) care pathways for colonic surgery are becoming increasingly popular; however, there have been concerns regarding protocol compliance, high readmission rates, and also the true impact on morbidity rates with these protocols. This study was conducted to assess the impact of a fast-track program for colonic surgery on hospital stay, complications, and readmission rates.

Methods: From December 2005 to March 2007, consecutive patients undergoing colonic surgery were prospectively studied.