Needles vs. delirium: could acupuncture protect Seniors' minds after surgery?

NCT ID NCT06564506

First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tests whether electroacupuncture, a type of acupuncture with mild electrical stimulation, can prevent postoperative delirium in adults aged 65-90 undergoing total knee replacement. Over 1,400 participants will receive either real or placebo acupuncture before surgery. Researchers will monitor for confusion and other cognitive changes in the first three days after the operation.

What this could mean

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

Active substance

electroacupuncture

What this could lead to

If it works, this could offer a drug-free way to prevent confusion after surgery in older adults.

What could go wrong

This is an early-stage trial with no phase, and the effect of electroacupuncture on delirium is unproven. Results may not show a clear benefit over placebo.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Emergence Delirium

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Study contacts

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

Locations

  • Fujian Provincial Hospital

    Fuzhou, Fujian, 350001, China

    Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••