Reducing opioid use after surgery with auriculo-nerve stimulation

Reduction of opioid requirement associated with Auriculo-nerve stimulation following open surgery

NIH-funded research University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh · NIH-10875508

This study is looking at a new device that helps manage pain after surgery without relying on opioids, making it a safer option for patients who might be at risk of using opioids too much.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Pittsburgh, United States)
Project IDNIH-10875508 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the use of a novel device called the NSS-2 Bridge Device® to reduce the need for opioids in patients undergoing surgery. By stimulating specific nerves in the ear, this device aims to provide effective pain relief without the risks associated with opioid medications. The study focuses on patients who are at risk of opioid use disorder and seeks to establish a safer alternative for managing pain post-surgery. Participants will be monitored for pain levels and opioid consumption to evaluate the effectiveness of this approach.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include adults undergoing surgical procedures who are at risk for opioid use disorder, particularly those aged 65 and older.

Not a fit: Patients who are not undergoing surgery or those who do not experience pain may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce the reliance on opioids for pain management after surgery, thereby decreasing the risk of opioid addiction and overdose.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using auriculotherapy for pain management, but this specific device and approach are relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Pittsburgh, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.