Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation in the prevention of postoperative nausea and vomiting after elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy

Study ObjectiveTo examine the effectiveness of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) on postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV).DesignRandomized, prospective, controlled study.SettingGazi University Medical School Hospital.Patients40 ASA physical status I-II patients who underwent elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy.InterventionsPatients were randomly divided into two equal groups. Group I received TENS (stimulation group), whereas group II served as the control group (nonstimulation group). In group I, one electrode was applied to the hairless skin on the neck as anode, and the other 2 (electrodes) were applied to the mastoid area. The stimulator at a frequency of 5 Hz, 50 milliseconds, with a current density of 0.5 to 4 mA was applied on the trapezoid area for 6 hours to all patients postoperatively.MeasurementsAll patients in both groups were evaluated for side effects, antiemetic effects, and analgesic and antiemetic need for 24 hours.Main ResultsPostoperative nausea and vomiting, frequency of dizziness, additional antiemetic and analgesic need, and PONV scores were lower in group I than group II.ConclusionsElectrical stimulation of the vestibular system may be useful in the prevention of PONV.