A Multicenter, Randomized Controlled Trial to Evaluate the Efficacy of Thread Embedding Acupuncture in Reducing Postoperative Ileus After Colorectal Cancer Surgery

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating the effectiveness and safety of thread embedding acupuncture (TEA) to help speed up gastrointestinal recovery after laparoscopic colorectal cancer surgery. This multicenter, randomized controlled trial focuses on patients with colorectal cancer, specifically assessing the time until first flatus as the primary outcome. Secondary outcomes include time to first bowel movement, ability to tolerate oral intake, length of hospital stay, and quality of life reported by patients. Participants are divided into three groups: one receiving thread embedding acupuncture combined with electroacupuncture, another receiving electroacupuncture alone, and a control group receiving standard care without acupuncture. Thread embedding acupuncture involves placing absorbable sutures under the skin at specific acupoints shortly after surgery, followed by electroacupuncture sessions at the same points over the next three days. All acupuncture procedures are performed by licensed professionals following strict protocols. During the study, participants will be monitored for gastrointestinal recovery progress through various assessments including time to first flatus and defecation, oral intake tolerance, and patient questionnaires on quality of life. The study also tracks hospital stay length and monitors for any complications. Participation spans the postoperative period up to 96 hours after surgery, with safety and recovery outcomes carefully recorded by the research team.

Effect of Thread Embedding Acupuncture on Postoperative Ileus Recovery After Colorectal Cancer Surgery: A Multicenter Randomized Controlled Trial