Click this link
to close this window and return to the course once you have completed the case study.

CASE STUDY: Recovery and Multiple Use

Question the reason that the pigs are allowed to recover from surgery.

This choice is ethically required. If the animals are subjected to a procedure that produces no or minimal pain or distress, it is possible that the animal could be used in alternative ways. However, animals cannot be allowed to recover from one surgery to be used for a second surgery or further experimental procedure unless multiple surgeries are required by the research and specifically approved by the IACUC. If the animals are allowed to recover, the PI must include a statement that he will euthanize animals post-op that experience pain or distress not relieved by analgesia.

Upon questioning, the PI said that he had no further educational use once the surgery was completed. He was allowing the pigs to recover so that he could send them to slaughter. The sale of the pigs for meat would provide funds to assist with the training program.

What is an appropriate IACUC response?

Applaud the PI's entrepreneurial attitude and encourage other researchers to think about how they can use leftover animals to help fund their own work.

Require that the animals be euthanized with an overdose of anesthetic after the trainees have completed their surgical task. The animals should not be allowed to regain consciousness or recover from the surgery.

To repeat the case, click this link.