Intraperitoneal and incisional analgesia in small animals: simple, cost-effective techniques

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Pain Management
• Animal Anesthesiology

Background:

• The World Small Animal Veterinary Association Global Pain Council (WSAVA-GPC) is releasing capsule reviews on key pain management topics.
• These reviews offer concise assessments of scientific evidence and practical recommendations.
• This article is the second in the series, focusing on specific analgesia techniques.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the scientific evidence for intraperitoneal and incisional analgesia in small animals.
• To provide practical recommendations for the use of these pain management techniques.
• To discuss the limitations associated with intraperitoneal and incisional analgesia.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of scientific evidence on intraperitoneal and incisional analgesia.
• Assessment of current practices and expert recommendations.
• Synthesis of findings into practical guidelines.

Main Results:

• Intraperitoneal and incisional analgesia are valuable tools for multimodal pain management in small animals.
• Specific techniques and drug choices impact efficacy and limitations.
• Evidence supports their use when applied correctly, but limitations exist.

Conclusions:

• Intraperitoneal and incisional analgesia can be effectively utilized in small animal practice.
• Understanding limitations and adhering to evidence-based recommendations is crucial.
• These techniques contribute to improved post-operative pain control in veterinary patients.