Using acupuncture to improve recovery after hip replacement surgery

Incorporating Acupuncture Into ERAS for Ambulatory Total Hip Replacement (THR) Surgery

Not applicable Interventional Hospital for Special Surgery, New York · NCT05384860

This study is testing if using acupuncture during hip replacement surgery can help patients recover faster and use less pain medication afterward.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment484 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 80 Years
SexAll
SponsorHospital for Special Surgery, New York Academic / other
Locations1 site (New York, New York)
Trial IDNCT05384860 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study aims to develop and validate a fast-track protocol for total hip replacement (THR) surgery that incorporates intraoperative acupuncture. By placing auricular therapy needles during surgery, the study seeks to assess the feasibility of reducing postoperative opioid consumption and enhancing recovery times for patients. The focus is on motivated patients undergoing outpatient THR, with a goal of improving overall patient satisfaction and outcomes. The study compares outcomes between those receiving acupuncture and those who do not.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are English-speaking adults aged 18-80 who are scheduled for total hip replacement and have an ASA status of 1 or 2.

Not a fit: Patients who are chronic opioid users, require general anesthesia, or have contraindications to the study protocol will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly reduce opioid use and enhance recovery for patients undergoing total hip replacement.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promise in using acupuncture for postoperative analgesia, but this specific approach of intraoperative acupuncture is novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* ASA status of 1 or 2
* Ages 18-80
* Undergoing a total hip replacement
* Ability to follow study protocol
* English-speaking

Exclusion Criteria:

* Non-English speaking
* Chronic opioids use (6 weeks or more)
* Contraindication to neuraxial anesthesia or peripheral nerve block
* Intending to receive general anesthesia
* Contraindication to intra-op protocol
* Implanted cardiac device (i.e. pacemaker)
* Active ear infection
* Non-native ear, previous scarring or surgery
* Ear gauges or other deforming ear piercing
* Allergy to Nickel

Where this trial is running

New York, New York

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 AcupunctureHip SurgeryOpioid Usehip surgeryacupuncture
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.