[Ear acupuncture points in neonates with neonatal abstinence syndrome due to maternal substitution therapy].
BACKGROUND
This is a prospective observational study performed at a university teaching hospital. The aim of the study was to determine the presence and absence of acupuncture ear points in neonates with neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS).


METHODS
The patients are neonates with neonatal abstinence syndrome. The examination took place on the third day (mean value: 72.3 h) after delivery and was performed by a neuronal pen (PS 3 Silberbauer, Vienna, Austria). A integrated optical and sound signal detects the ear points that were assigned to the ear map.


RESULTS
We investigate 5 neonates (3 males, 2 females, mean gestational age: 37+3, mean birth weight: 2,655 g). All investigated neonates showed the presence of active ear acupuncture points. The psychovegetative rim was the most common point in 100% of the children. In all neonates we found the presence of psychic ear points. The detectable psychic ear points are frustration point, R point and the psychotropic field nasal from the incisura intertragica.


CONCLUSIONS
Ear points are detectable in neonates with NAS and do not depend on the side of the ear lobe. The most important point is the psychovegetative rim and, in all neonates with NAS, psychic ear points were detectable. So for the first time it is possible to identify psychic ear acupuncture points in neonates. In the future it could be possible to use active ear points in neonates for diagnostic and therapeutic options.
Raith
W
W
Klinische Abteilung für Neonatologie, Univ. Klinik für Kinder- und Jugendheilkunde, Medizinische Universität Graz, Osterreich. wolfgang.raith@klinikum-graz.at
Kutschera
J
J
Müller
W
W
Urlesberger
B
B
D015669:Acupuncture Points; D004431:Ear, External; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D008297:Male; D009357:Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome / Q000503:physiopathology*; D011247:Pregnancy; D011248:Pregnancy Complications / Q000534:rehabilitation; D011446:Prospective Studies; D011619:Psychotropic Drugs / Q000008:administration & dosage; D019966:Substance-Related Disorders / Q000534:rehabilitation
D011619:Psychotropic Drugs