Impact of Early Enteral Nutrition on Postoperative Recovery in Cardiac Surgery Patients: A Cross-sectional Observational Study

Background: The impact of early enteral nutrition (EEN) on postoperative outcomes in cardiac surgery patients remains underexplored despite its potential benefits. This study investigated the effects of EEN on recovery markers and complications in this patient population. Methods: For this purpose, a cross sectional-observational study was carried out on 180 patients who underwent heart surgery. The patients were randomly assigned to receive either EEN within 6–12 hours after the surgery or usual postoperative care. The main outcomes assessed were infection rates, duration of hospitalization and total morbidity. The secondary outcomes assessed included the duration until the first bowel movement, gastrointestinal problems, wound healing and patient satisfaction. Albumin and pre-albumin levels were used to evaluate the nutritional status. Results: The use of EEN resulted in a substantial decrease in infection rates (13 vs. 24%, p > 0.05) and a shorter duration of hospital stay (7.5 vs. 8.8 days, p < 0.05). The overall morbidity rate was slightly lower, however the difference was only marginally significant (17 vs. 28%). Patients with EEN also exhibited a reduced duration until the first bowel movement (48 vs. 72 hours, p < 0.05), a lower incidence of gastrointestinal problems (10 vs. 22%, p < 0.05), and enhanced wound healing. The EEN group had a superior nutritional state at discharge, characterized by elevated levels of albumin and pre-albumin. The EEN group exhibited a higher level of patient satisfaction compared to the group didn't receive EEN (90 vs. 75%, p < 0.05). Conclusion: EEN had a considerable positive impact on the postoperative outcomes of patients undergoing cardiac surgery. It effectively reduced the infection rates, hospital stay duration and gastrointestinal issues. Additionally, EEN improved nutritional markers and enhanced patient satisfaction. These findings endorsed the integration of EEN into conventional postoperative therapy to enhance recovery.