This study is looking at whether auriculotherapy, a treatment involving stimulating points on the ear, can help reduce anxiety before surgery and potentially lower the need for pain medication afterward. You might be able to join if you are at least 18 years old, are scheduled for an elective partial or full kidney removal (nephrectomy) for cancer, and have a specific level of anxiety (anxiety score between 19 and 29 on a special questionnaire). The study is comparing an active auriculotherapy device (with nitrogen gas) to a placebo device (without nitrogen gas). Researchers will measure how much pain medication (opioids) you use from the day of surgery until discharge or up to 30 days later to see if the treatment is successful. The current recruitment status is unclear.

Study design

This is a randomized, placebo-controlled study planning to enroll 60 participants. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either the active auriculotherapy treatment or a placebo treatment.

What's involved

You would complete questionnaires before surgery. The auriculotherapy treatment involves placing a device on specific points on your ear for a short time.

Compensation

Not stated in the trial record.

Follow-up

Researchers will track your opioid consumption from the day of surgery through discharge or up to 30 days post-operation, whichever comes first.

AI-generated from the public study record. Only the study team can confirm whether you're eligible — confirm details with them before making decisions.