Using self-adjusted nitrous oxide to manage pain and anxiety during vasectomy

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This study evaluates the feasibility of using self-adjusted nitrous oxide to reduce pain and anxiety during vasectomy procedures. Patients scheduled for vasectomy at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center will be enrolled and provided with a remote-controlled gas mask to adjust their nitrous oxide levels during the procedure. Participants will complete surveys before, immediately after, and at two weeks and three months post-procedure to assess their pain, anxiety, and overall satisfaction. The goal is to determine if allowing patients to control their nitrous oxide intake improves their experience of care.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Scheduled for vasectomy
2. Aged 21 to 85 years
3. Suitable for receipt of inhaled nitrous oxide/oxygen
4. Access to an email and computer

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Perioral facial hair impeding good mask seal
2. Cognitive impairment that impedes ability to complete survey questions
3. Intent to use benzodiazepines or opioids "as needed" for purposes of vasectomy
4. Has any of the following medical conditions, which contraindicate use of nitrous oxide:

   1. Inner ear, bariatric or eye surgery within the last 2 weeks,
   2. Current emphysematous blebs,
   3. Severe B-12 deficiency,
   4. Bleomycin chemotherapy within the past year,
   5. Heart attack within the past year,
   6. Stroke within the past year,
   7. Class III or higher heart failure.

Where it's running

• Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
  Boston, Massachusetts, United States Recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Heidi Rayala, MD, PhD — Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
• Study coordinator: Heidi Rayala, MD, PhD
• Email: hrayala@bidmc.harvard.edu
• Phone: 617-667-3739

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.