Effectiveness of the Penetrating-Needling and Swallowing Acupuncture Technique (Touci Tanyan Acupuncture Technique) for Post-Stroke Dysphagia: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Objectives: This study evaluated the efficacy and safety of the penetrating-needling and swallowing acupuncture technique (PNSAT) for post-stroke dysphagia (PSD) through a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs).Methods: Seven databases were searched for RCTs up to July 14, 2025. Two reviewers independently screened studies, extracted data, and assessed risk of bias (RoB). Meta-analyses were conducted using RevMan 5.4.Results: Fourteen RCTs were included, most with a high RoB. PNSAT significantly improved swallowing function (RR=1.21, 95% CI: 1.11-1.32), increased quality of life (MD=17.04, 95% CI: 7.23-26.74), and reduced complications (RR=0.25, 95% CI: 0.09-0.70). Compared to conventional acupuncture, PNSAT showed superior outcomes, including increased hyoid displacement on videofluoroscopic swallowing studies (MD=8.11, 95% CI: 2.21-14.00). Adverse event rates were similar between groups.Conclusion: PNSAT appears safe and effective for PSD, with potential advantages over conventional acupuncture. However, further high-quality, large-scale trials are needed.