A systematic review and meta-analysis analyzing 94,833 patients revealed that alvimopan significantly lowers the risk of postoperative ileus (odds ratio: 0.57) and shortens hospital stays in individuals undergoing bowel resection. These findings strongly support the routine incorporation of alvimopan into enhanced recovery after surgery programs for open bowel resections. Further investigation is required to explore its effectiveness in minimally invasive procedures, highlighting an area for future research.
• Why it matters: Reducing postoperative complications enhances patient recovery and care.
Review by Murtaza R, Clarke O (…) Hajibandeh S et 7 al. in Am Surg