Impact of Goal-Directed Fluid Therapy on Postoperative Recovery and Length of Hospital Stay in Major Abdominal Surgery

Abstract

Background: Goal-Directed Fluid Therapy (GDFT) has been increasingly utilised to optimise perioperative hemodynamics and improve surgical outcomes. This study evaluated the impact of GDFT on postoperative recovery and length of hospital stay in patients undergoing major abdominal surgery.

Materials and Methods: This comparative observational study was conducted in the Department of Anaesthesiology, Tezpur Medical Collegefrom January 2016 to January 2017. A total of 54 patients undergoing elective major abdominal surgery were included and divided into two groups: the GDFT group (n=27) and the conventional fluid therapy group (n=27). Demographic data, intraoperative fluid administration, postoperative recovery parameters, complications, and length of hospital stay were recorded and analyzed.

Results: Patients in the GDFT group received significantly lower intraoperative fluid volumes and demonstrated faster postoperative recovery. Time to ambulation, initiation of oral feeding, and return of bowel function were significantly shorter in the GDFT group compared to the conventional therapy group. The overall postoperative complication rate was lower in the GDFT group (14.8% vs. 37.0%). Mean hospital stay was significantly reduced in patients managed with GDFT (6.2 ± 1.8 days) compared with conventional fluid therapy (8.9 ± 2.4 days) (p<0.001).

Conclusion: Goal-Directed Fluid Therapy improves postoperative recovery and significantly reduces hospital stay in patients undergoing major abdominal surgery. Its use may contribute to better perioperative outcomes and enhanced recovery.