Session 4 – Recovery Early Postoperative Rehabilitation: The Secrets to a Successful Recovery
Seance of wednesday 25 march 2026 (L'Académie reçoit la SFAR (Société Française d'Anesthésie Réanimation))
DOI number : 10.26299/y7hx-ma48/emem.2026.13.05
Abstract
Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) is now a cornerstone of modern perioperative care. It is based on a simple principle: minimizing factors that delay recovery while promoting those that accelerate it. This comprehensive approach relies on several key components: preoperative optimization, reduction of surgical and anesthetic stress, prevention of complications, and enhancement of postoperative recovery.
A successful recovery therefore begins at the first surgical consultation and requires close coordination among all healthcare professionals involved in the care pathway.
Among the key elements, early mobilization in the post-anesthesia care unit (PACU) plays a central role. General anesthesia and surgery promote the development of atelectasis, which contributes to postoperative complications. As these are present upon arrival in the PACU, early intervention is essential.
In this context, our team implemented an ultra-early rehabilitation protocol initiated immediately upon PACU admission: semi-recumbent positioning, closed intravenous line, oral analgesia, early oral fluid intake, respiratory physiotherapy, and early ambulation.
A retrospective study demonstrated that this protocol is feasible, safe, and associated with a significant reduction in postoperative complications, with an even greater benefit in patients who ambulated early.
Early verticalization thus appears to be a key driver of recovery. Its success depends on anticipatory strategies (opioid-sparing techniques, minimally invasive surgery, limitation of invasive devices) and strong multidisciplinary coordination.
A successful recovery therefore begins at the first surgical consultation and requires close coordination among all healthcare professionals involved in the care pathway.
Among the key elements, early mobilization in the post-anesthesia care unit (PACU) plays a central role. General anesthesia and surgery promote the development of atelectasis, which contributes to postoperative complications. As these are present upon arrival in the PACU, early intervention is essential.
In this context, our team implemented an ultra-early rehabilitation protocol initiated immediately upon PACU admission: semi-recumbent positioning, closed intravenous line, oral analgesia, early oral fluid intake, respiratory physiotherapy, and early ambulation.
A retrospective study demonstrated that this protocol is feasible, safe, and associated with a significant reduction in postoperative complications, with an even greater benefit in patients who ambulated early.
Early verticalization thus appears to be a key driver of recovery. Its success depends on anticipatory strategies (opioid-sparing techniques, minimally invasive surgery, limitation of invasive devices) and strong multidisciplinary coordination.