Wednesday, December 12, 2012

Acupuncture for Cerebral Vasospasm After Subarachnoid Hemorrhage: A Retrospective Case-Control Study

Source: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23176375 Abstract

Abstract Objectives: To examine the possibility of acupuncture as a new promising treatment to prevent delayed cerebral vasospasm, retrospective comparison was done of patient outcomes in patients with subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) treated with and without acupuncture. Materials and methods: Twenty (20) patients with SAH were treated after their ruptured aneurysms had been secured. Acupuncture treatments were applied to the bilateral Zusanli (ST36) and Neiguan (PC6) once a day for 2 weeks, starting within 3 days of the aneurysm rupture. The incidence of angiographic vasospasm and delayed ischemic neurological deficit (DIND), the patient's functional status at discharge, and mortality rate were analyzed. Patient outcomes were compared with those of an age- and severity-matched comparison group composed of patients treated in the hospital without acupuncture. Results: None of the patients who received acupuncture died. Angiographic vasospasms occurred in 5 patients (25.0%) and DIND in 2 (10%). In terms of functional impairment, the modified Rankin score at discharge was ≤2 in 7 patients (35%). In the control group, angiographic vasospasms occurred in 10 patients (55.6%) and DIND in 7 (38.9%), similar to the reported incidence in conventionally treated patients. Conclusions: Patients with SAH who received acupuncture had a significantly lower incidence of DIND and significantly improved function at discharge, suggesting that acupuncture is effective in preventing cerebral vasospasm. In light of these promising results, a randomized controlled trial is warranted to determine the efficacy of acupuncture in a clinical setting.

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Tony Burris, L.Ac., is a 17-year practitioner of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and is an expert in safe and effective acupuncture therapy and herbal remedies. He is the only practitioner in the United States that offers a “Painless Acupuncture- Or Your Money Back!” Guarantee. Tony helps frustrated and injured athletes and chronic pain sufferers discover a unique therapy system that often provides long-lasting or even permanent pain relief. His patients include members of the San Diego Chargers, Washington Redskins, Denver Broncos, Chicago Bears and Detroit Lions. Tony also treats members of the Seattle Mariners, Olympic medalists, mixed martial artists and NCAA competitors. Contact Tony @ tony@eagleacuuncture.com

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