Objectives

To evaluate the short-term outcome following postoperative enhanced recovery implementation in patients with perforated peptic ulcer.

Methods

Quasi-experimental research design was utilized. Thirty patients received postoperative enhanced recovery after open surgical repair of perforated peptic ulcer compared with control group who received routine care. Patient assessment sheet and gastrointestinal quality of life index were the tools used for data collection.

Results

The mean age was 40.43 ± 8.39 years for the study group and 39.53 ± 8.08 for the control group (56.7%, 70%), respectively, were males. The study group demonstrated early first bowel movement, flatus and stool passage (8.1 ± 1.16 (h), 12.6 ± 2.46 (h), and 2.47 ± 0.82 (days)), respectively, compared to control group (10 ± 1.11, 15.1 ± 2.04, and 3.57 ± 0.82). A significant reduction (6.93 ± 1.29 vs. 12.3 ± 4.96 (days)) and (30% vs. 60%) in hospital length of stay and postoperative complications among study group compared to control group (P < 0.01). The mean scores (56.17 ± 13.78 and 72.6 ± 11.89 vs. 34.33 ± 8.91and 53.43 ± 16.14) of gastrointestinal quality of life index were significantly better in study group (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Improved gastrointestinal functional recovery, reduced postoperative complications, and improved quality of life, all were a result of implementing postoperative enhanced recovery among patients with perforated peptic ulcer.