Riassunto dello studio

Seventy-six female patients undergoing lumbar spine surgery were randomized to receive either wrist-ankle acupuncture point stimulation plus standard care (n=38) or standard perioperative care alone (n=38). The primary outcome was the incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV). Secondary outcomes included serum levels of 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) and gastrin, postoperative pain scores, and patient satisfaction. Outcomes were assessed at baseline, postoperatively, and up to 24 hours after surgery. Overall, the results of the study revealed that wrist-ankle acupuncture significantly reduced PONV incidence, lowered 5-HT and gastrin levels, and improved patient satisfaction without affecting pain control. These findings suggest that wrist-ankle acupuncture point stimulation may be an effective, non-pharmacological method to reduce PONV and improve patient outcomes in high-risk surgical populations.