Reducing Opioid Needs After Surgery with Ear Nerve Stimulation
Reduction of opioid requirement associated with Auriculo-nerve stimulation following open surgery
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH · NIH-11105934
This project explores if a small device placed on the ear can help reduce the amount of pain medication needed after surgery for adults.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (PITTSBURGH, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11105934 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Many people need strong pain medication after surgery, which can sometimes lead to problems with opioid use. This project looks at a new way to manage pain using a small, battery-powered device placed on the ear. This device gently stimulates nerves in the ear, a technique similar to acupuncture, to help lessen pain. The goal is to see if this stimulation can reduce the amount of opioid pain medication you might need after an open surgery.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 21 and older, including those 65 and older, who are undergoing open surgery and may need pain management.
Not a fit: Patients who do not require pain management after surgery or are not suitable for ear nerve stimulation may not benefit from this specific approach.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could offer a non-opioid option to manage pain after surgery, potentially reducing the risk of opioid dependence.
How similar studies have performed: Auriculotherapy, a form of acupuncture, has shown promise as an opioid-sparing treatment for pain, and this specific device is FDA-cleared for opioid withdrawal symptoms.
Where this research is happening
PITTSBURGH, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH — PITTSBURGH, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: CHELLY, JACQUES E. — UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH
- Study coordinator: CHELLY, JACQUES E.
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.