Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
English pain scale tested for cats after surgery
By Brondani, Juliana T et al.·Published in BMC veterinary research·2013·Department of Veterinary Surgery and Anesthesiology, Brazil·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: Validation of the English version of the UNESP-Botucatu multidimensional composite pain scale for assessing postoperative pain in cats.
- Species:
- cat
Plain-English summary
A study validated a pain scale for assessing postoperative pain in cats, specifically after surgeries like spaying. The English version of the UNESP-Botucatu multidimensional composite pain scale was found to be reliable and effective in measuring pain levels. It showed excellent consistency in evaluating how cats express pain and their physical responses, helping veterinarians determine when additional pain relief is needed. This tool can help ensure that cats receive the right amount of pain management after surgery, improving their recovery experience.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND: A scale validated in one language is not automatically valid in another language or culture. The purpose of this study was to validate the English version of the UNESP-Botucatu multidimensional composite pain scale (MCPS) to assess postoperative pain in cats. The English version was developed using translation, back-translation, and review by individuals with expertise in feline pain management. In sequence, validity and reliability tests were performed. RESULTS: Of the three domains identified by factor analysis, the internal consistency was excellent for 'pain expression' and 'psychomotor change' (0.86 and 0.87) but not for 'physiological variables' (0.28). Relevant changes in pain scores at clinically distinct time points (e.g., post-surgery, post-analgesic therapy), confirmed the construct validity and responsiveness (Wilcoxon test, p < 0.001). Favorable correlation with the IVAS scores (p < 0.001) and moderate to very good agreement between blinded observers and 'gold standard' evaluations, supported criterion validity. The cut-off point for rescue analgesia was > 7 (range 0-30 points) with 96.5% sensitivity and 99.5% specificity. CONCLUSIONS: The English version of the UNESP-Botucatu-MCPS is a valid, reliable and responsive instrument for assessing acute pain in cats undergoing ovariohysterectomy, when used by anesthesiologists or anesthesia technicians. The cut-off point for rescue analgesia provides an additional tool for guiding analgesic therapy.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23867090/