Implementation of a dietitian led peri-operative nutrition clinic in general surgery patients in a regional acute care hospital

This presentation examines the impact of a dietitian-led perioperative nutrition optimization program for elective general surgery patients on surgical outcomes. Qualitative findings will be presented, including feedback from patients and members of the multidisciplinary care team regarding the integration of a dietitian into the surgical care pathway. Quantitative outcomes following the implementation of the perioperative nutrition clinic will also be reviewed and compared with historical data from the period prior to its introduction. Key metrics include length of hospital stay, readmission rates, postoperative morbidity, and mortality. The session highlights the potential role of structured perioperative nutrition support in improving surgical outcomes and enhancing multidisciplinary care delivery.

Speaker Bio:

Dr. Ahmed Jad is a General and Bariatric Surgeon practicing in Nova Scotia, Canada, with a clinical and academic focus on metabolic and bariatric surgery, foregut surgery, and endoscopic bariatric therapies. He serves as Assistant Professor of Surgery at Dalhousie University and is actively involved in advancing surgical care and innovation across Atlantic Canada. Dr. Jad holds several leadership roles, including President of the Doctors Nova Scotia Section of General Surgery and President of the Doctors Nova Scotia Section of Obesity. He also serves as the Northern Zone NSQIP Champion, working to improve surgical quality and outcomes across the region. He is the Medical Director of Revive Bariatric Health Clinic, where he leads a multidisciplinary program focused on comprehensive obesity care, including medical, endoscopic, and surgical treatment options. Dr. Jad’s clinical interests include advanced bariatric procedures, revisional surgery, and novel hybrid techniques combining endoscopy and surgery, such as fundoplication with endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty (HF-ESG). His work emphasizes multidisciplinary care, perioperative optimization, and improved patient outcomes. He is also engaged in research and quality improvement initiatives, including projects in perioperative nutrition, bariatric outcomes, and surgical innovation. Dr. Jad is a recipient of the QEII Foundation Translating Research into Care (TRIC) Grant, supporting efforts to translate clinical research into improved patient care.