Acupuncture anaesthesia in inguinal hernia repair.
BACKGROUND
The present study was undertaken to evaluate the efficacy of acupuncture anaesthesia in inguinal hernia repair.


METHODS
Twelve patients with non-recurrent inguinal hernia had Lichtenstein mesh repair under acupuncture anaesthesia. Selected acupuncture loci were stimulated with fine needles connected to low frequency current. Supplementary local anaesthetic was given when required.


RESULTS
Four (33%) patients reported satisfactory analgesic effect throughout the operation without need for additional medication, eight (67%) patients experienced mild discomfort during the operation requiring 1-4 mL of 1% lignocaine injection. Blood pressure and heart rate were stable during the procedure. All patients were able to sit up and resume their diet immediately post-operatively. All but one patient were discharged on day one after the procedure, with no early or late complications reported. Most patients were satisfied with the analgesic effect of acupuncture anaesthesia.


CONCLUSIONS
Acupuncture anaesthesia is a feasible anaesthetic option. It reduces the amount of local anaesthetic required, and thus the associated potential complications. It is effective in pain relief and inhibiting gastrointestinal upset. Postoperative recovery was rapid and complication free.
Chu
David Wa
DW
Department of Surgery, United Christian Hospital, Kwun Tong, Kowloon, Hong Kong.
Lee
Daniel Tai-Yam
DT
Chan
Tony Tung-Fei
TT
Chow
Tam-Lin
TL
Que
Manuel Bon-We
MB
Kwok
Samuel Po-Yin
SP
D015667:Acupuncture Analgesia / Q000009:adverse effects*; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D005240:Feasibility Studies; D005767:Gastrointestinal Diseases / Q000209:etiology* / Q000517:prevention & control*; D006552:Hernia, Inguinal / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D007902:Length of Stay; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010147:Pain Measurement; D010149:Postoperative Pain / Q000209:etiology* / Q000517:prevention & control*; D017060:Patient Satisfaction