Assessing the efficacy of celecoxib after tonsillectomy and/or adenoidectomy: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised control trials

Abstract

Objectives: Tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy are common surgical procedures that cause persistent pain, bleeding, and functional limitations. We aimed to investigate the efficacy of celecoxib compared with a placebo for managing post-tonsillectomy or adenoidectomy pain and other adverse events. Design: Systematic review and meta-analysis. Methods: We conducted a systematic literature search in the PubMed, Cochrane, and Google Scholar databases from inception until July 2023. Dichotomous outcomes have been reported as risk ratios (RR) while continuous outcomes were reported using mean differences (MD). A funnel plot was drawn to investigate publication bias. Results: From 1394 records identified, 6 randomised double-blind trials comprising 591 participants undergoing tonsillectomy and/or adenoidectomy were eligible for inclusion. A high dose (400 mg) of celecoxib was effective in decreasing the pain score for ‘worst pain’ after the procedure (MD: −10.98, [95% CI: −11.53, −10.42], p