Percutaneous auricular neuromodulation for postoperative analgesia

Area of Science:

• Neuromodulation
• Pain Management
• Auricular Stimulation

Background:

• Postoperative pain is a significant clinical challenge, often inadequately managed with opioids.
• Opioids, while effective, present risks including side effects, misuse, and dependence.
• Auricular electric stimulation offers a potential alternative for pain relief.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the evidence on auricular electric stimulation for postoperative pain management.
• To explore its role as a neuromodulation technique.
• To identify future research directions.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of literature from MEDLINE/PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane.
• Search conducted for studies published between 1980 and 2024.
• Focus on evidence regarding efficacy, safety, and application in postoperative pain.

Main Results:

• Small pilot studies suggest potential for reduced pain intensity and opioid consumption.
• Auricular nerve stimulation modulates central pain pathways via peripheral stimulation.
• Further research is required to fully establish benefits and risks.

Conclusions:

• Percutaneous auricular nerve stimulation is a promising neuromodulation technique for postoperative pain.
• It may serve as an adjunct to multimodal analgesia, particularly for opioid-naïve patients.
• Additional research is needed to optimize its use and confirm its efficacy and safety profile.