For Peer Review Acupuncture for treatment of uncontrolled pain in cancer patients: a pragmatic pilot study

ABSTRACT Purpose: Pain control is an ongoing challenge in the oncology setting. Prior to implementing a large randomized trial at our institution, we investigated the feasibility , safety and initial efficacy of acupuncture for uncontrolled pain among cancer patients. Hypotheses: Our hypotheses were that the acupuncture treatments provided would be : 1) feasible, 2) safe, and 3) a beneficial adjunct to pain management. Study Design: This was a single arm, non-randomized pragmatic pilot study. Methods: Participants experiencing pain > 4 on a 0-10 numeric rating scale received a maximum of 10 treatments on an individualized basis. Recruitment, attrition, compliance , and adverse events (AEs) were assessed. Pain (Brief Pain Inventory – Short Form), quality of life (MD Anderson Symptom Inventory [MDASI]), and patient satisfaction were assessed at baseline and at the end of treatment. Results: Of 115 patients screened, 52 (45%) were eligible and agreed to participate. Eleven (21%) were lost to follow-up, leaving 41 who completed all study procedures. No AEs were reported. Mean pain