Evaluation of transcutaneous electroacupoint stimulation with the train-of-four mode for preventing nausea and vomiting after laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the efficacy of transcutaneous electroacupoint stimulation with a train-of-four (TOF) mode for the prevention of postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) in the patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy. METHODS: Ninety-six ASA Grade I - II patients scheduled for laparoscopic cholecystectomy were randomized into Neiguan (P6) electroacupoint stimulation group (treated group) and a placebo control group (placement of electrodes without electroacupoint stimulation). The anesthetic regimen was standardized by needling at Neiguan on the left side and connecting the TOF peripheral nerve stimulator. The incidence of nausea, vomiting, severity, antiemetic dosage and the degree of pain were assessed at 0, 60, 120 min, and 24 h after surgery. RESULTS: The incidence of nausea and vomiting, the dose of antiemetics and the occurrence of severe nausea were all significantly lower in the treated group compared with the control group and the score for pain was obviously reduced in patients of the treated group at 24 h post-operation (P<0.05 or P<0.01). CONCLUSION: Transcutaneous electroacupoint stimulation at P6 with the TOF mode could reduce the incidence and severity of nausea and vomiting with analgesic effects.

[Effect of electroacupuncture on bispectral index of electroencephalography in patients undergoing subtotal thyroidectomy].

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effects of electroacupuncture on bispectral index (BIS) of electroencephalography in patients undergoing subtotal thyroidectomy. METHODS: Sixty patients were equally randomized into group A given electroacupuncture combined with cervical plexus block (CPB) and group B given CPB alone. After needling sensation was reached in bilateral "Hegu" and "Neiguan" acupoints, 5 min of high frequency electrical stimulation by electrical stimulation device followed with CPB was applied to group A, while only CPB was performed in group B. Visual analog scale (VAS) and verbal stress scale (VSS) were monitored, complication and adverse reaction were observed and BIS, mean arterial pressure (MAP), heart rate (HR) and arterial oxygen saturation (SaO2) were monitored continuously in the perioperative period. RESULTS: HR increased and BIS decreased in group A, both were lower significantly than those in group B (P < 0.01); MAP, the complementary dosage of fentanyl and lidocaine used and scores of VAS and VSS were also lower in group A than those in group B (P < 0.01). CONCLUSION: Electroacupuncture could enhance the anesthetic effect of CPB, lower the BIS value during subtotal thyroidectomy.