Auricular Acupressure for Preventing Postoperative Catheter-Related Bladder Discomfort in Male Patients Undergoing Spinal Surgery: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Aims and objectivesThis present study evaluated the utility of auricular acupressure (AA) in alleviating catheter-related bladder discomfort (CRBD).BackgroundThe efficacy and safety of current treatments for postoperative CRBD in male patients remain suboptimal.DesignA randomized, placebo-controlled trial was conducted.MethodsThis trial enrolled male patients postlumbar surgery from 1 July 2024 to 31 August 2024. Participants were allocated to an AA group (Group AA, n = 40) or a placebo control group (Group C, n = 40). Both groups received 3 days of intervention prior to surgery. Outcomes included the following: Moderate-to-severe CRBD at extubation; 24-h postoperative opioid requirement; CRBD severity (none/mild/moderate-to-severe) at 1, 6, and 24 h postextubation; postoperative pain; and patient satisfaction. Data were analyzed via SPSS 23 using t-tests, chi-square tests, and repeated-measures ANOVA.ResultsIn this randomized trial of 80 male spinal surgery patients, AA significantly reduced moderate-to-severe CRBD incidence at extubation (T1): 22.5% (9/40) in Group AA vs. 52.5% (21/40) in Group C (RR: 0.263; 95% CI: 0.100–0.691; p=0.006). AA decreased the subjects of 24-h supplemental opioid requirements (17.5% vs. 37.5%; RR: 2.829; 95% CI: 1.003–7.977; p=0.045) and elevated patient satisfaction (median 5.0 vs. 4.0; p=0.034). No between-group differences existed in morphine-equivalent consumption or CRBD severity beyond T1 (p>0.05).ConclusionsAA is an effective, nonpharmacological intervention that reduces early postoperative CRBD severity and opioid demand while enhancing recovery satisfaction in catheterized males. As a noninvasive, side-effect-free intervention, AA warrants integration into enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocols for catheterized patients.Trial Registration: Chinese Registry of Clinical Trials: ChiCTR2400086089.