Can freezing nerves during heart surgery slash pain and opioid use?

NCT ID NCT05859061

Completed Symptom relief Sponsor: Northwestern University Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jul 27, 2026 · Last updated Jul 28, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This pilot trial tests a technique called cryoanalgesia, which uses extreme cold to temporarily freeze nerves in the chest during heart surgery. The goal is to block pain signals, potentially reducing the need for opioid painkillers and improving recovery. The study enrolls adults scheduled for coronary bypass or single valve surgery through a breastbone incision.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: cryoanalgesia using the cryoICE system with CryoSphere probe to freeze intercostal nerves
What this could lead to: If it works, this could offer a drug-free way to manage pain after heart surgery, reducing reliance on opioids.
What could go wrong: This is a small pilot study with only 32 participants, so results may not apply broadly. Nerve freezing carries risks like temporary numbness or nerve damage.

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.

coronary artery disorder heart valve disorder Pain, Postoperative

As listed by the trial registrant

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

PAIN, POSTOPERATIVE

Contacts and locations

Locations

Northwestern University

Chicago, Illinois, 60611, United States

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