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.
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.