Reducing alcohol use before and after surgery

Reducing Alcohol Use Among Elective Surgical Patients Using Adaptive Interventions

Not applicable Interventional University of Michigan · NCT05783635

This study is testing whether extra support and virtual coaching can help people cut down on alcohol use before and after their surgery to improve their health and recovery.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment440 (estimated)
Ages21 Years to 75 Years
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Michigan Academic / other
Locations1 site (Ann Arbor, Michigan)
Trial IDNCT05783635 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial aims to evaluate various interventions designed to decrease alcohol consumption in patients scheduled for major elective surgery. Participants will receive enhanced usual care and virtual health coaching before and after their surgical procedures. The study employs a sequential, multiple assignment, randomized design to assess the effectiveness of these interventions in promoting surgical health and long-term wellness. The trial targets individuals who are at risk of surgical complications due to alcohol use, as identified by a specific screening tool.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals scheduled for major elective surgery who have a score of 5 or higher on the AUDIT-C screening tool.

Not a fit: Patients with a history of severe alcohol withdrawal or those unable to participate in English may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved surgical outcomes and long-term health for patients with alcohol use issues.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in using preoperative interventions to reduce alcohol use, indicating potential success for this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

1. Completed consent form, baseline survey, and enrollment phone call
2. Willingness to comply with all study procedures and availability for the duration of the study
3. Scheduled for select major elective surgery (non-cancer) in the next 5-12 weeks
4. Score ≥ 5 on the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test-Concise (AUDIT-C) based on research linking this score with increased risk of surgical complications
5. Access to a smart device or computer access with internet or wi-fi connection throughout the study period

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Exclude participants enrolled in another research study focused on alcohol use
2. History of severe alcohol withdrawal
3. Unable to speak, understand, or read English

Where this trial is running

Ann Arbor, Michigan

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Alcohol DrinkingSurgery
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 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.