AB044. SOH24AB_265. Bariatric surgery outcomes in the national bariatric centre following implementation of enhanced recovery after bariatric surgery protocol

Background: Obesity is a complex, progressive & relapsing chronic disease associated with significant morbidity & mortality. Bariatric surgery remains the single most efficacious treatment for obesity. Through the implementation of enhanced recovery after bariatric surgery (ERABS) protocol we have decreased waiting times and increased capacity within the hospital group.

Methods: Data pertaining to bariatric procedures performed over a 7-year period was collected prospectively at pre-operative clinics, and post-operative outcomes were recorded at time of discharge, 3, 6 and 12 months post-operatively in outpatient clinics.

Results: Data from over 800 bariatric procedures since 2017 were obtained. The majority of patients were female. The mean weight of patients was 146.6±33.8 kg, and a mean body mass index (BMI) of 52±9 kg/m². Bariatric procedures performed included sleeve gastrectomy, single anastomosis gastric bypass, and Roux-en-Y gastric bypass. Since the implementation of the ERABS protocol, mortality (0%), transfer to intensive care unit (ICU) (0.4%), and conversion to open (1%) are lower than international standards. Readmission, re-operation, morbidity, and length of stay are comparable with international standards.

Conclusions: Implementing an ERABS protocol is safe and feasible, and has facilitated improved peri and post-operative outcomes. The ERABS protocol has also enabled the performing of bariatric surgery at a model 2 hospital, increasing capacity and decreasing waiting times within our hospital group, without compromising surgical safety or quality.

Keywords: Bariatric surgery; enhanced recovery after bariatric surgery (ERABS); obesity; bypass; sleeve gastrectomy