Watkinsville

Researchers are evaluating whether transcutaneous auricular neurostimulation (tAN) can reduce blood loss during dialysis arteriovenous (AV) graft placement procedures. This randomized, double-blind, sham-controlled pilot trial includes adults aged 18 to 75 undergoing dialysis port placement with synthetic grafts. Participants are randomly assigned to receive either active tAN or sham treatment alongside standard care. The study involves two groups: one receiving 30 minutes of active tAN using the Volta tAN System immediately before the procedure, and the other receiving a sham version where the device is applied but not activated. Blood loss and blood markers are measured before and during the procedure to assess the therapy's impact. During the study, participants will undergo blood loss monitoring throughout the procedure. Researchers will evaluate the mean total blood loss as the primary outcome. Participants must be able to provide informed consent and meet the study's criteria. The total involvement covers the pre-procedure treatment and the dialysis port placement with ongoing assessments.