Objective:

2

To assess the efficiency of acupuncture combined with early enteral nutrition (EEN) in patients with postoperative laparoscopic common bile duct exploration.

Methods:

2

A total of 200 patients with postoperative laparoscopic bile duct exploration was randomized using sealed envelopes and assigned to the convenitional

EEN

acupuncture plus convenitional and acupuncture plus EEN groups

50 cases in each group. Twelve hours after operation

the patients in EEN groups began to receive oral enteral nutrition

and the acupuncture approach was performed by acupuncturist in acupuncture plus conventional and acupuncture plus EEN groups. Acupuncture was given at Zusanli (ST 36)

Shangjuxu (ST 37) and Xiajuxu (ST 39) with a depth of 15–20 mm

using the lifting-thrusting and twisting method to obtain Deqi sensation.The needles were maintained for 30 min. Treatment was given once daily

3 times per section. After the intervention

the patients' characteristics

operation time

bleeding volume

postoperative time to first anal exhaust

postoperative complications including abdominal distension

diarrhea

gastric dilatation

intestinal obstruction

pharyngodynia

incision

abdominal and pulmonary infection and postoperative hospitalization days were assessed and compared in patients among 4 groups.

Results:

2

Postoperative time to first anal exhaust in the convenitional group was longer compared with the other 3 groups (

P

<

0.05)

and was shorter in the acupuncture plus EEN group than those of the convenitional

acupuncture plus convenitional and EEN groups (

P

<

0.01). The acupuncture plus EEN group showed significant decrease in the incidence of complications and less postoperative hospitalization days compared with the other groups (

P

<

0.05 or

P

<

0.01). There was no readmission.

Conclusion:

2

After laparoscopic bile duct exploration

acupuncture combined with EEN treatment significantly improves the patients' gastrointestinal function

reduces complications

and shortens postoperative hospitalization days.