DOI
https://doi.org/10.18849/ve.v11i3.739Abstract
PICO Question
In large dogs weighing more than 20 kg undergoing elective orchidectomy, does a closed castration technique result in fewer postoperative complications than an open castration technique?
Clinical bottom line
Category of research
Treatment.
Number and type of study designs reviewed
One randomised, controlled trial was critically appraised.
Strength of evidence
Weak.
Outcomes reported
The study found that dogs weighing between 3 kg and 53 kg having closed castrations suffered fewer complications up to 10 days postoperatively compared to those having open castrations. Weight of the dog was not a significant factor in complication rate following closed versus open castration. The study reported a greater number of large dogs weighing over 20 kg suffering major complications that needed a medical or surgical intervention. However, the population size of these large dogs was too small to evaluate, with any significance, which technique was safer in reducing the risk of major complications.
Conclusion
Regardless of the size of the dog, there is limited, weak evidence that closed castrations lead to fewer postoperative complications compared to open castrations. However, there is insufficient evidence as to whether this applies to large dogs weighing over 20 kg. Furthermore, there is insufficient evidence on whether closed castrations lead to fewer major postoperative complications, defined as those requiring medical or surgical intervention. There is therefore insufficient evidence to justify a change in clinical practice regarding elective castration technique in large dogs. It can be argued that the best available evidence suggests that closed castrations may be safer overall, but further research is needed to evidence this more strongly in large dogs.
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