Effect of Transcutaneous Auricular Vagus Nerve Stimulation on Perioperative Negative Emotions in Breast Cancer Surgery Patients

Effect of Intraoperative Transcutaneous Auricular Vagus Nerve Stimulation on Perioperative Negative Emotions in Patients Undergoing Breast Cancer Surgery: A Multicenter, Randomized, Double-Blind, Sham-Controlled Trial

A multicenter, randomized, double-blind, sham-controlled trial to investigate the effects of a single session of intraoperative transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) on perioperative negative emotions (anxiety and depression), pain, nausea, sleep, and recovery in patients undergoing elective breast cancer surgery.

Patients undergoing breast cancer surgery frequently experience perioperative anxiety and depression, which can adversely affect recovery and quality of life. This study evaluates the efficacy of a single 30-minute intraoperative taVNS session in mitigating these negative emotions and improving postoperative outcomes. Patients will be randomized to receive either active taVNS or sham stimulation after anesthesia induction. The primary outcome is the incidence of depressive symptoms within 3 days postoperatively. Secondary outcomes include anxiety, pain, PONV, sleep quality, and recovery parameters.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Aged ≥18 years. Scheduled for elective breast cancer surgery. ASA physical status I-III. Willing and able to provide informed consent.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Preoperative MMSE score < 24; severe communication barriers. History of diagnosed dementia, Parkinson's disease, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder, or long-term use of psychotropic drugs.

Skin lesions, infection, or deformity of bilateral ears; history of ear surgery or nerve injury; allergy to electrode materials.

Severe arrhythmia; implanted electronic devices (e.g., pacemaker, ICD). Participation in another interventional trial within 3 months. Other conditions deemed unsuitable by investigators.