Using acupuncture to improve quality of life for women undergoing gynecological surgery

Assessing Effectiveness of Acupuncture and Integrative Care in Reducing Peri- and Intra-operative Pain and Anxiety in Patients With Gynecological Cancer: A Randomized Controlled Study

Not applicable Interventional Carmel Medical Center · NCT03560388

This study is testing if acupuncture can help women feel less anxious and in less pain during and after gynecological surgery.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment135 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexFemale
SponsorCarmel Medical Center Academic / other
Drugs / interventionschemotherapy
Locations1 site (Haifa)
Trial IDNCT03560388 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the effects of complementary and integrative medicine (CIM) treatments, particularly acupuncture, on anxiety, pain, and overall quality of life in women undergoing surgery for gynecological cancer. The approach involves administering intensive CIM treatments within 24 hours before and during the surgical procedure. The hypothesis is that these treatments will alleviate perioperative anxiety and pain, potentially reducing the need for analgesics during and after surgery. The study aims to provide insights into how integrative care can enhance patient outcomes in gynecological oncology.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are female patients aged 18 and older who are scheduled for surgery due to suspected or established gynecological cancer.

Not a fit: Patients who are pregnant or those with chronic pain treated with opiates in the month prior to surgery may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly reduce anxiety and pain for patients undergoing gynecological surgery, improving their overall quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that complementary and integrative medicine treatments can effectively improve quality of life and related symptoms in patients with gynecological cancer, suggesting a promising avenue for this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: Female patients age ≥ 18 years, who were referred to surgery for suspected/established gynecological-oncology cancer at the Carmel Medical Center; Patients diagnosed with class1-3 peri-operative risk according to American Society of Anesthesia.

Exclusion Criteria:Unwillingness to sign the research participation form and/or limitations in comprehending the informed consent; during pregnancy; patients with chronic pain treated with opiates within one month preceding surgery.

Where this trial is running

Haifa

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 Quality of LifeIntegrative medicineAcupunctureGynecological oncologySurgeryAnalgesiaPainAnxiety
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.