Prospective, Randomized, Controlled Trial Between a Pathway of Controlled Rehabilitation With Early Ambulation and Diet and Traditional Postoperative Care After Laparotomy and Intestinal Resection

Patients scheduled for a laparotomy and major intestinal or rectal resection are suitable for management by a pathway of controlled rehabilitation with early ambulation and diet. Pathway patients have a shorter hospital stay, with no adverse effect on patient satisfaction, pain scores, or complication rates. Patients younger than 70 years of age derive the optimal benefit, and increased surgeon experience improves outcome.