ABSTRACT:

Summary: Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocols have significantly improved perioperative outcomes across various surgical fields, yet their adoption in neurosurgery remains limited. This systematic review evaluates the clinical effectiveness, safety, and feasibility of ERAS implementation in neurosurgical procedures, particularly in craniotomy patients.
Methods: A systematic review of literature from 2018 to 2024 was conducted, including randomized controlled trials, cohort studies, and systematic reviews. Primary outcomes analyzed were hospital length of stay, pain control, complication rates, and patient satisfaction. Secondary outcomes included cost-effectiveness, barriers to implementation, and long-term recovery.
Results: Across more than 2,000 patients, ERAS protocols consistently reduced hospital stays by 2–4 days, improved postoperative pain management (with lower opioid use), and significantly increased patient satisfaction. Complication and readmission rates remained stable or improved. Additionally, ERAS led to an approximate 25% reduction in healthcare costs per episode of care.
Conclusion: ERAS protocols in neurosurgery yield substantial benefits without compromising patient safety. They should be considered a new standard of care, enhancing recovery, patient experience, and healthcare efficiency. Their implementation requires multidisciplinary collaboration and adherence to neurosurgical safety standards.

KEYWORDS :

Enhanced Recovery After Surgery, ERAS, neurosurgery, craniotomy, perioperative care, patient outcomes, healthcare efficiency.

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