Current practice and physicians’ opinion about preoperative hair removal as a part of ERAS pathway implementation in gynecology and gynecology–oncology: a NOGGO-AGO survey of 148 gynecological departments in Germany

Purpose To gather standardized information about current practices and doctors’ opinions on preoperative hair removal (PHR) from the surgical site and to evaluate the extent of PHR as one of the elements of enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) pathways that is established in the clinical routine in gynecology and gynecology–oncology departments in Germany. Methods We performed a nationwide survey among 638 primary, secondary and tertiary health care gynecological departments in Germany. Data were obtained by sending a multiple-choice questionnaire about preoperative management of hair removal. The authors also evaluated the awareness of doctors regarding PHR as well as the method and time frames of PHR. The results were compared to the existing standard of procedure (SOP) and guidelines. Results 148 units (23.2%) took part in the survey; participants in the survey were mostly chief physicians in 47.3% of the cases. Half (50.7%) of all the responses came from certified gynecological cancer centers. A SOP regarding PHR was reported as present in 113 clinics (76.4%). 83.8% of all units are performing PHR for midline laparotomy, 52.7% in laparoscopic operations, and 45.3% in vaginal operations. 48% used a clipper, while 43.2% utilized a single-use razor. 56.1% shaved instantly before the operation, whereas 35.8% did it the day before and earlier. 40.3% of chief physicians believe that PHR causes more surgical site infections (SSI) compared to only 11.5% of junior doctors. Conclusion PHR in gynecological departments in Germany is performed very heterogeneously and SOPs are often not based on guidelines and ERAS principles. Around one-third of the German gynecological clinics keep strictly to the guidelines. The awareness on PHR and SSI among junior doctors is very low.