Auricular Acupressure for Perioperative Anxiety and Pain in Therapeutic Breast Surgery (ROSA)

Auricular Acupressure for Reducing Perioperative Anxiety and Pain in Therapeutic Breast Surgery Following an Initial Breast Cancer Diagnosis

This randomized, controlled, single-center trial investigates the effects of auricular acupressure, administered according to the National Acupuncture Detoxification Association (NADA) protocol, on perioperative anxiety and pain in patients with a first diagnosis of breast cancer undergoing therapeutic breast surgery. Participants receiving auricular acupressure according to the NADA protocol will be compared with patients receiving standard care alone.

Participant recruitment is conducted directly through the clinical department Naturopathy and integrative medicine in the Rober-Bosch-Hospital . During routine care, the study physician informs eligible patients about the study and provides the patient information sheet upon initial interest. The physician subsequently conducts a comprehensive informed-consent discussion and addresses all patient questions. Written consent is obtained only after this process. Participation is voluntary and may be withdrawn at any time without consequences for the patient.

Patients will complete validated instruments measuring anxiety and pain. Participants randomized to the intervention group (auriculotherapy) will receive the treatment during their hospitalization and will be compared with a control group receiving standard care.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Female gender
• Breast cancer patients undergoing therapeutic breast surgery at Robert Bosch Hospital following an initial diagnosis.
• Signed informed consent form.

Exclusion Criteria:

• An anxiety disorder that has been diagnosed within the last 12 months.
• A mental state that, in the opinion of the investigator, prevents the patient from participating in the study.
• Use of hearing aids.
• Skin irritations or eczema in the ear.
• Pregnancy
• Insufficient knowledge of German
• Unwillingness to store and share personal medical data within the framework of the protocol
• Missing or incomplete declaration of consent
• Receipt of acupuncture treatment (including NADA ear acupuncture or acupressure) in the last three months.