Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) that compared NSAIDs with combined acetaminophen-codeine in treatment of postpartum pain were eligible for inclusion. Included trials evaluated various regimens of NSAIDs and the combined acetaminophen-codeine. Included studies considered post-laporotomy pain. Surgical procedures were varied and included episiotomy, inguinal or umbilical hernia repair, laparoscopic cholecystectomy, haemorrhoidectomy, vasectomy, varicose vein resection and caesarean section.
The eligible primary outcomes were intensity of pain and incidence of adverse effects. Details and interpretation of visual analogue scale (VAS) pain scores were reported. Trials used different time points for pain assessment. Dosages, regimes and types of NSAIDs varied.
The authors did not state how studies were selected.