Effect of Transcutaneous Auricular Vagus Nerve Stimulation on Postoperative Opioid Consumption in… (NCT07260266) | Clinical Trial Compass
Not Yet RecruitingNot Applicable
Effect of Transcutaneous Auricular Vagus Nerve Stimulation on Postoperative Opioid Consumption in Patients Undergoing Major Abdominal Surgery
108 participantsStarted 2026-01-01
Plain-language summary
This study aims to design a prospective, double-blind, randomized controlled trial to compare the effects of transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) on postoperative visceral pain in patients undergoing major abdominal surgery. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either taVNS or sham stimulation. The total consumption of opioids and other analgesics within 24 hours post-surgery in the AICU will be recorded, along with follow-up assessments of pain scores and quality of recovery scores (Qor-15) at 24 hours postoperatively.
Who can participate
Age range
18 Years – 85 Years
Sex
ALL
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Inclusion Criteria:
* Age between 18 and 85 years, regardless of gender
* ASA physical status classification I-III
* Scheduled for elective major abdominal surgery under general anesthesia, with postoperative admission to the AICU for monitoring
* Anticipated duration of stay in the AICU is approximately 24 hours
Exclusion Criteria:
* History of vagus nerve-related diseases (such as vasovagal syncope);
* Severe arrhythmias or implanted electronic devices such as pacemakers;
* Skin lesions, infections, or deformities at the site of external ear stimulation;
* Long-term preoperative use of opioid medications or sedatives;
* Allergy to study-related medications;
Questions worth asking your doctor
Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.
1Based on my diagnosis and history, is this trial worth exploring for me — or is there a standard treatment we should try first?
2What does this trial's phase tell us about how much is already known about its safety and benefit?
3What would taking part actually involve for me — visits, tests, time, and travel?
4What are the known and possible risks or side effects I should weigh, and how would they be monitored?
5If this trial isn't the right fit, what other options or trials would you suggest I look into?
Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
Questions for the trial coordinator
The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.