STEIN Protocol for Cataract Surgery
(SLin Trial)
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This randomized controlled trial evaluates whether a standardized perioperative neuroplastic intervention: the STEIN Protocol (Strategies and Techniques for Enhancing Integration and Neuroplasticity), consisting of pain neuroscience education, guided imagery, and paced breathing, reduces intraoperative analgesic and anxiolytic requirements.
Secondary outcomes include patient-reported pain, anxiety, satisfaction, and postoperative recovery following cataract surgery.
Reduced intraoperative sedative and analgesic requirements may reflect improved patient comfort and autonomic regulation while minimizing medication-related adverse effects.
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for adults having planned cataract surgery with numbing eye drops who can give consent and follow study instructions. People can't join if they have certain medical or mental health issues, need special anesthesia, or can't do the breathing exercises or follow-up.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Preoperative Intervention
Participants watch a short educational video and practice guided breathing exercises
Intraoperative Intervention
Participants follow slow, guided breathing during cataract surgery
Postoperative Follow-up
Participants practice brief breathing exercises at home and are monitored for recovery and satisfaction
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- STEIN Protocol
Trial Overview
The study compares three groups: one gets a neuroplasticity-based program (education about pain, guided imagery, and paced breathing), another listens to music only, and a control group receives standard care. The goal is to see which approach best reduces anxiety and pain during cataract surgery.
How Is the Trial Designed?
3
Treatment groups
Experimental Treatment
Placebo Group
Music Only
Music and Guided Imagery
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of California, Los Angeles
Lead Sponsor
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