This is a protocol for a Cochrane Review (intervention). The objectives are as follows:

The objective of this review is to assess the effects of various preoperative fasting regimens (i.e. the duration of fasting from liquids and solids and the type and volume of permitted intake) on perioperative complications and aspiration or regurgitation related morbidity (e.g. aspiration pneumonia) and mortality in adult patients undergoing general anaesthesia.

We will also assess whether the effects of various preoperative fasting regimens differ for patients undergoing different types of surgeries, for patients who are pregnant or obese, and patients diagnosed with diabetes, gastroesophageal reflux, gastroparesis or respiratory co-morbidity.