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Fast Track in Thoracic Surgery

Spain

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Minimally invasive surgical techniques, and especially thoracoscopic surgery, have been in development since 1990. During that time, many advances have also been made in the field of anesthesia, pain control and perioperative support. This in turn has developed numerous models of major outpatient surgery and surgery termed "fast track", especially in the context of digestive tract surgery, to which an abundance of literature has been dedicated.¹ The concept of fast track involves an anesthetic technique, surgery and quick rehabilitation, which allow a minimal hospital stay and quick return to normal activity for the patient. The scientific rationale which includes an earlier recovery of muscle strength, tissue oxygenation, pulmonary function and more adequate nutrition, has resulted in a decrease in general morbidity, especially cardiopulmonary, and quicker postoperative recovery. Fast-track surgery puts together a multidisciplinary team of specialists. The optimum selection of patients for a fast-track program is essential; choosing good candidates and carefully evaluating their comorbidity and level of collaboration . . . [Full Text of this Article]