Effect of thumb-tack needle therapy at ST36 on postoperative gastrointestinal dysfunction: A pragmatic randomized controlled trial

This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of Thumb-Tack Needle (TN) therapy at the ST36 acupoint in promoting postoperative gastrointestinal recovery in patients undergoing elective laparoscopic colorectal cancer surgery. Postoperative gastrointestinal dysfunction (POGD) is common after abdominal surgery and may lead to delayed recovery, prolonged hospital stay, and increased healthcare costs. TN therapy has shown potential in accelerating gastrointestinal motility and reducing inflammation, but its role in postoperative gastrointestinal recovery warrants further investigation. This single-center, single-blind randomized controlled trial enrolled 100 patients undergoing elective abdominal surgery. Patients were randomly assigned to receive either TN therapy at bilateral ST36 acupoints (TN group) or a sham treatment (CON group). Primary outcomes included First Exhaust Time, First Stool Time, First Eating Time, Gastrointestinal Symptom Rating Scale (GSRS), and inflammatory markers (IL-6 and TNF-α). Secondary outcomes included the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) for pain. Patients in the TN group had significantly shorter First Exhaust Time (23.3 vs. 25.9 hours, P=0.019) and First Stool Time (31.4 vs. 34.8 hours, P=0.011). GSRS scores were significantly lower in the TN group on postoperative days 1 and 3, indicating faster gastrointestinal symptom relief. Serum IL-6 and TNF-α levels were also lower in the TN group, suggesting reduced postoperative inflammation. No significant difference was observed in First Eating Time (P=0.652). VAS scores decreased more rapidly in the TN group. TN therapy at ST36 acupoint significantly promotes postoperative gastrointestinal recovery, reduces systemic inflammation, and alleviates early postoperative symptoms. It represents a safe, convenient, and effective non-pharmacological adjunct for enhanced recovery after colorectal surgery. Tongji Hospital, Huazhong University of Science and Technology (TJ-IRB202403012). Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR2400090739).