Applying Auricular Static Magnetic Therapy for Postoperative Nausea and Vomiting in an Outpatient Clinic: A Case Report

Abstract

Background: Postoperative Nausea And Vomiting (PONV) is a common and distressing complication after surgery. Patients receiving opioids such as morphine for postoperative pain management are particularly susceptible to nausea and vomiting, which can significantly delay recovery. Although pharmacological treatments for PONV are available, their effectiveness remains limited in some patients. Acupuncture and acupressure are potential interventions for various forms of nausea, including PONV; however, severe symptoms may persist despite these interventions. Auricular Static Magnetic Therapy (ASMT) has emerged as a novel, noninvasive, and cost-effective approach that is easy to apply and may provide complementary support for managing PONV.

Case Presentation: Here we present the case of a 53-year-old woman patient who underwent knee meniscus repair under regional anesthesia with morphine administered for pain management. Severe postoperative nausea developed after surgery. Magnetic discs were applied to the auricular region, and the nausea resolved within 30 minutes.

Conclusion: take home message ASMT is a novel and potentially effective intervention for PONV. ASMT is noninvasive, simple to administer, and cost-effective. It may serve as a complementary therapy for alleviating PONV and morphine-induced nausea in postoperative settings.

Keywords: Acupuncture; Auricular Static Magnetic Therapy; Case Report; Morphine; Postoperative Nausea and Vomiting PONV