Enhanced Recovery After Surgery: What It Means for You

If you are having planned surgery, you may hear the hospital mention an “enhanced recovery programme”, sometimes shortened to ERAS. It sounds technical, but the idea is simple: a planned set of steps before, during and after an operation that aims to help people recover well and get home safely. The exact details depend on the hospital and the type of surgery.

Before the operation

Preparation often starts weeks ahead. You might be asked to:

• stay as active as you comfortably can
• eat well, and stop smoking or cut down on alcohol
• attend a pre-assessment appointment to review your health and medicines
• follow specific instructions about eating and drinking on the day

After the operation

Enhanced recovery usually encourages people to get moving again early — sitting out of bed and walking short distances when the team says it is safe — and to start eating and drinking as soon as appropriate. Pain relief is planned so that you can move and breathe comfortably. Packing with that in mind helps, and our list of what to bring to hospital for surgery starts with loose clothes and shoes you can walk the ward in.

Your part in it

Patients are seen as active partners. Asking questions, following the exercise plan and saying when something doesn’t feel right all matter. Our guide to preparing questions for appointments works well for pre-assessment too.

Getting home ready

• Clear walkways and put everyday items within easy reach.
• Stock up on simple, nourishing food — see food for healing.
• Arrange help with lifts, shopping or childcare for the first days.
• Know who to call if you have concerns after discharge.

If you’re having knee surgery

Our practical guide to recovering from knee surgery at home covers the first weeks in more detail.

Every programme is different. Your surgical team will explain what applies to you — and it is always fine to ask them to go over it again.