Speed Up Recovery: A Natural Way to Get Bowel Function Back After Cancer Surgery

A systematic review and meta-analysis published in Frontiers in Oncology provides strong evidence for integrating acupuncture into enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocols for cancer patients, particularly those undergoing colorectal procedures. The study, which synthesized data from 16 randomized controlled trials involving 877 participants, concluded that acupuncture is an effective and safe complementary treatment for postoperative gastrointestinal dysfunction (PGD). The therapeutic benefits center on expediting normal bowel function recovery, which is a key factor in faster hospital discharge and improved patient comfort.

The research specifically highlights how acupuncture can reduce key recovery metrics. The meta-analysis indicated that patients receiving acupuncture experienced a significantly shorter time to:

• First flatus (TFF).

• First defecation (TFD).

• Bowel sound recovery (TBSR).

These benefits were observed when comparing acupuncture groups to routine care, sham acupuncture, and even standard ERAS protocols alone. The study suggests that specific acupoints, most frequently ST36 (Zusanli) and ST37 (Shangjuxu), play a significant role in regulating nerve pathways and promoting gastrointestinal motility. While the evidence level was rated as low to moderate due to some study heterogeneity and reporting quality, the consistent positive outcomes provide a robust argument for the clinical application of acupuncture as a non-pharmacological treatment option.

Reference:

Lin, Dezhi et al. “Acupuncture for postoperative gastrointestinal dysfunction in cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis.” Frontiers in oncology vol. 13 1184228. 9 Jun. 2023, doi:10.3389/fonc.2023.1184228

This is for informational purposes only. Patients should consult with a qualified, certified acupuncturist who has experience in oncology care.