Enhanced Recovery After Surgery: Intraoperative Fluid Management Strategies

Abstract

Ideal fluid management is a critical component of enhanced recovery after surgery protocols and should be considered throughout the perioperative period. The goal of preoperative fluid management is for the patient to arrive to the operating room euvolemic. Intraoperative goals of fluid management are to preserve intravascular volume and minimize salt and water uptake through intravenous crystalloid infusions. Postoperatively, once patients are tolerant of oral fluid intake, intravenous fluids are not required and should be restarted only if clinically necessary. This article reviews evidence-based, best practices for intraoperative fluid management for patients undergoing surgery within an enhanced recovery after surgery pathway.

Keywords: ERAS; Fluid management; Goal-directed fluid therapy.