Hypnosis may help kids avoid pain gas during stitches

NCT ID NCT02420002

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 2 times

Summary

This study tested whether hypnosis, with MEOPA (a pain-relieving gas) available if needed, works as well as MEOPA alone for controlling pain in children getting stitches. Sixty children in the emergency department were randomly assigned to one of two groups. The goal was to see if hypnosis could reduce the need for MEOPA while still keeping kids comfortable.

What this could mean

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

Active substance
MEOPA (equimolar mixture of nitrous oxide and oxygen) and hypnosis
What this could lead to
If successful, this could show that hypnosis reduces the need for pain medication during minor procedures in children.
What could go wrong
This is a small, single-center trial with only 60 participants, so results may not apply broadly. Hypnosis may not work for all children, and some may still need MEOPA.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

injury Wounds, Nonpenetrating

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • CHRU de Nîmes - Hôpital Universitaire Carémeau

    Nîmes, 30029, France