Evaluation of capsicum ointment application on Korean hand acupressure points KD2,K-K9 In reducing postoperative nausea and vomiting after cataract surgery with general anesthesia

Post operative nausea and vomiting (PONV) is a very common and distressing complication after surgeries which may result in more serious problems such as incisional hernia wound dehiscence and aspiration. Cataract surgery following increase in intraocular pressure is sensitive to POVN. This study was designed to evaluate the effect of capsicum ointment on Korean acupressure points in reducing PONV and the amont of anti- emetic medications was used. Methods and Materials: This study is a double-blinded clinical trial which was done on 200 patients who were referred to Amir Kabir hospital for cataract surgery. The patients were randomized assigned to two groups, one who received capsicum ointment and the other placebo (vaseline ointment) at the pressure points (K-K9 and K-KD2). After applying the ointments and during the first 12 hours after the operation the patients were assessed for the incidence and intensity of PONV. The incidence of nausea and vomiting during the first 6 and 12 hours was higher in the placebo group in compare to the capsicum group (p=0.001). Nausea scores were also higher in the 6 and 12 hours in the placebo group (p=0.0005). Uses of metoclopramide was significant higher in the placebo group in compare to the capsicum group (p=0.001). There was no significant difference between the two groups for vomiting during first 12 hours ofter opration. Stimulating of both K-D2 & K-K9 Korean acupressure points simultaneously is a simple, noninvasive, cheap and effective method for reducing PONV.