Perioperative Medicine (POM): Definitions, Conceptual Domains, Models, and Core Components

Perioperative Medicine (POM) has developed into a multidisciplinary and integrated model of care intended to support patients from the moment surgery is contemplated through full recovery and return to optimal function. Despite increasing international uptake of perioperative services, POM remains inconsistently defined and variably operationalised across healthcare systems and professional groups. A systematic synthesis is required to consolidate how POM is defined, which domains it includes and excludes, and which models/frameworks underpin delivery and implementation. 1.2 Objectives Primary objective: • To identify and synthesise how perioperative medicine is defined and conceptualised in the published literature. Secondary objectives: • To map conceptual domains used to describe POM (e.g., continuity, multidisciplinary integration, optimisation, governance, equity, outcomes, management, distribution of responsibilitiies, processes/pathways) • To describe models/frameworks of POM delivery, including temporal boundaries and system-level design features. • To identify core components and implementation features described in POM literature. • To identify evidence gaps relevant to development of guidance, evaluation frameworks, and educational priorities.