Does UK licensed NSAID administration reduce signs of postoperative pain in calves castrated without local anaesthesia?

Abstract

PICO question In calves undergoing castration without local or general anaesthesia, do non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) licensed for use in cattle in the UK administered either before, during or after the procedure reduce signs of postoperative pain?   Clinical bottom line Category of research question Treatment The number and type of study designs reviewed Twenty studies were critically appraised. All were controlled trials, of which 17 were randomised. Only NSAIDs licensed for use in cattle in the UK were included in the search strategy and in appraised papers Strength of evidence Moderate Outcomes reported Five studies reported an improvement in both physiological and behavioural indicators of postcastration pain following NSAID administration and a further eight reported improvements in either physiological or behavioural parameters. Seven studies found no improvements in pain indicators Conclusion There is moderate evidence to suggest that NSAID administration before, during or after castration is able to reduce the signs of postoperative pain in calves castrated without anaesthesia. The degree to which pain is reduced is variable and depends upon factors including but not limited to castration method, specific NSAID given, dosage, administration and calf age