Safe discharge on the second postoperative day after major colorectal surgery: a decision-making strategy based on quantitative serological data

Carefully selected, motivated, and clinically suitable patients could be offered discharge on POD2 if their C-reactive protein levels are below 140 mg/L, with a very high negative predictive value for anastomotic leak and other postoperative complications. This decision should be made in collaboration with patients, considering clinical assessment and logistic factors.