SummaryThe efficacy of intra-operative acupuncture at the PC6 point in the prevention of postoperative nausea or vomiting was studied. A double-blind randomised controlled study of acupuncture versus placebo was performed in 81 patients scheduled for day case gynaecological laparoscopic surgery. Failure of treatment was defined as the occurrence of nausea or vomiting prior to or within 24 h of discharge. The use of acupuncture reduced the incidence of postoperative nausea or vomiting in hospital from 65% to 35% compared with placebo and after discharge from 69% to 31% compared with placebo.