Enhanced Recovery After Surgery

If you’ve decided to have a surgery, you probably have a lot of questions. One of the most common questions we get is, “How long will my recovery take?” 

Our Nebraska Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (NERAS) program was developed to help you take control of your recovery. By working with your doctor and following the steps, your surgical recovery will be as safe and quick as it possibly can be.  

Enhanced recovery programs are associated with:  

• Up to a 50% reduction in hospital length of stay 
• A 30% to 50% reduction in complications 
• Marked reduction in opioid use in the first 3 days after surgery  
• Over 25% more patients are active on the first day after surgery 

What to expect  

A good NERAS program candidate is someone who wants to be an active part of their recovery. You’re a good candidate if you’re willing to follow your doctor’s instructions, drink and eat properly, stay active and keep follow-up appointments. 

Before surgery, your health care team will talk to you about how to prepare your body. Your doctor will give you instructions to follow closely. These instructions usually include things like medications to take, improving your nutrition, quitting habits that may affect your recovery, staying active and staying hydrated.  

After surgery, your health care team will focus on controlling any pain, promoting activity and outlining clear milestones for you to meet as part of your recovery.  

Why you should choose Nebraska Medicine 

The doctors at Nebraska Medicine work hard to provide the most up-to-date and evidence-based treatments. Studies show that using these Enhanced Recovery principles leads to fewer complications, shortened hospital stays and less loss of independence.  

When you choose Nebraska Medicine for your surgery, it means your health care team will use these Enhanced Recovery principles throughout each stage of your care to ensure your surgical recovery is as safe and easy as possible.