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BACKGROUND: Ileus is common after colorectal surgery and is associated with an increased risk of postoperative complications. Identifying features of normal bowel recovery and the appropriateness for hospital discharge is challenging. This study explored the safety of hospital discharge before the return of bowel function. METHODS: A prospective, multicentre cohort study was undertaken across an international collaborative network. Adult patients undergoing elective colorectal resection between January and April 2018 were included. The main outcome of interest was readmission to hospital within 30 days of surgery. The impact of discharge timing according to the return of bowel function was explored using multivariable regression analysis. Other outcomes were postoperative complications within 30 days of surgery, measured using the Clavien-Dindo classification system. RESULTS: A total of 3288 patients were included in the analysis, of whom 301 (9·2 per cent) were discharged before the return of bowel function. The median duration of hospital stay for patients discharged before and after return of bowel function was 5 (i.q.r. 4-7) and 7 (6-8) days respectively (P

Original publication

DOI

10.1002/bjs.11422

Type

Journal article

Journal

Br j surg

Publication Date

04/2020

Volume

107

Pages

552 - 559

Keywords

Adult, Colectomy, Colostomy, Elective Surgical Procedures, Female, Follow-Up Studies, Humans, Ileostomy, Ileus, Male, Middle Aged, Multivariate Analysis, Patient Discharge, Patient Readmission, Patient Safety, Postoperative Complications, Proctectomy, Prospective Studies, Recovery of Function