Effects of Electroacupuncture in Diabetic Patients with Gastroparesis

• Main Authors: Chung-Pang Wang, 王中邦
• Other Authors: 謝慶良
• Format: Others
• Language: zh-TW
• Published: 2006
• Online Access: http://ndltd.ncl.edu.tw/handle/92914915447241764836

碩士 === 中國醫藥大學 === 中西醫結合研究所碩士班 === 94 === Gastroparesis is a common sequelae of diabetes mellitus. The symptoms of diabetic gastroparesis may significantly impair a patient’s quality of life. Few prokinetic agents are available to treat diabetic gastroparesis. Prominent adverse effects of these agents had been observed on long-term therapy that may preclude their use. Acupuncture has been used to treat GI symptoms in Oriental countries for many centuries. Recently, electroacupuncture (EA) has been reported to produce an excitatory effect on gastrointestinal motility. In this study we aimed at evaluating the effect of EA in diabetic patients with gastroparesis. We collected 21 patients with type 2 diabetes with a ≧ 3-month history of gastroparesis symptoms. Patients are then randomized to one of the two treatment arms. Arm I: 11 patients received EA stimulation on acupoints St-36 (Zusanli) and Li-4 (Hegu). Electrical stimulation using 2-Hz pulses with a 10mA direct current was delivered for 30 min each session. Arm II: 10 subjected to EA stimulation on non-acupoints around St-36 and Li-4 with the same electrical pulse and amplitude. They all underwent 2 treatment sessions per week for 2 wk. Gastroparesis Cardinal Symptom Index (GCSI) and solid-phase gastric half emptying time (T1/2) were measured on baseline and after EA to evaluate the effectiveness of EA. Fasting blood sugar, 1h, and 2h postprandial glucose levels were also monitored. Results: The gastric emptying half-time decreased and the upper gastrointestinal symptoms score improved significantly after 2 wk of treatment with EA in the treatment arm. Sustained improvement in dyspeptic symptoms was observed at the 2-week follow-up later after EA treatment. There were no significant changes in fasting and postprandial blood sugar levels in both the treatment and control arms. Conclusion: The treatment regimen with 4 sessions of EA stimulation seems to be able to accelerate gastric emptying and to improve symptoms of gastroparesis in diabetic patients with gastroparesis. Further studies are necessary to investigate the role of EA treatment on diabetic gastroparesis.