Ear acupuncture aimed at cutting opioid use after broken leg surgery – but trial never started

NCT ID NCT05984433

Terminated Symptom relief Sponsor: Baylor College of Medicine Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study planned to test whether adding ear acupuncture to standard pain management could reduce opioid use after surgery for lower leg fractures. It was designed for adults aged 18–64 undergoing ankle or foot fracture repair. However, the trial was withdrawn before enrolling any participants, so no data were collected.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: Auricular acupuncture (electro acupuncture device)
What this could lead to: If it had worked, this could point toward a way to reduce opioid use after leg fracture surgery, lowering the risk of addiction and side effects.
What could go wrong: The trial was withdrawn before any participants were enrolled, so no results are available. Even if conducted, the effect of acupuncture on opioid use is uncertain and may vary by individual.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Ankle Fractures Pain, Postoperative tibia fracture

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

FOOT FRACTURE FRACTURE, ANKLE PAIN, POSTOPERATIVE PILON FRACTURE OF TIBIA

Contacts and locations

Locations

Ben Taub Hospital

Houston, Texas, 77030, United States

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