NCT06344819 · Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
An Acupuncture Study for People At High Risk for Sepsis
What this study is about
Researchers think acupuncture may improve outcomes for participants with sepsis, based on laboratory studies and previous studies in people with sepsis. The purpose of this study to see whether real acupuncture can improve outcomes for participants with sepsis when compared to sham acupuncture.
View original scientific description
Researchers think acupuncture may improve outcomes for participants with sepsis, based on laboratory studies and previous studies in people with sepsis. The purpose of this study to see whether real acupuncture can improve outcomes for participants with sepsis when compared to sham acupuncture. Sham acupuncture is performed the same way as real acupuncture but will use different needles and target different sites or places on the body than real acupuncture.
Interventions
PROCEDURE
Acupuncture
Acupuncture involves insertion of thin filiform needles (gauze 30-40) at certain points on the body.
OTHER
Sham Acupuncture
During sham acupuncture, the point on the participant's thigh 6 inches proximal to the ST36 acupuncture point is gently tapped with an acupuncture needle guide tube and an acupuncture needle is taped flat to the skin. This point is not on any acupuncture meridian or point.
Primary outcome measures
Number of participants recruited compared to the number of participants who complete study treatment.
Time frame: Up to 2 years
To assess the feasibility of conducting a randomized controlled trial of acupuncture in hospitalized patients who are at risk for sepsis.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Age 18 or older
- Having MSK sepsis order-set placed within the previous 48 hours
Exclusion criteria
- The study Principal Investigator will review the medical record again prior to enrollment to exclude non-sepsis patients (Even though the placement of sepsis order set already screens out such patients, subsequent clinical development after sepsis order set placement may generate new information that deems the patient not septic.)
- Admitted to ICU before being approached for consenting
- Having an implanted medical device, such as a pacemaker or implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD), with which electroacupuncture
- Unable to obtain informed consent due to a participant's mental status and absence of an individual authorized to give consent on the participant's behalf
- The patient is on an interventional clinical trial and its Principal Investigator does not give approval to enrollment to this study (e.g. genomic profiling, biospecimen, or observational studies do not require PI approval).
Where
- New York, New York
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced May 22, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations