Acupuncture for Reduction of Inflammation in Thyroid and Parathyroid Surgery: Randomized, Prospective Double Blind Pilot Clinical Trial

Detailed Summary

This study is being done because the investigators wish to study ways to improve recovery after surgery. Injury, including surgical injury, causes inflammation. Inflammation is the body's attempt to protect itself and to start the healing process. Some surgical complications are related to the body's natural inflammatory response. Although mainly a healing response, inflammation can also have side effects which delay recovery. The investigators wish to determine the effect of acupuncture on post-operative surgical pain. An increase in pain after surgery can cause distress for patients. Acupuncture is an alternative medicine methodology originating in China that treats patients by manipulating thin, solid needles that have been inserted into acupuncture points in the skin. Acupuncture has been used for the reduction of pain. The investigators would like to see if acupuncture during surgery can provide a lower level of pain, reduced pain medication requirement, and a lower incidence of nausea and vomiting.

Study Details

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Interventions