Effects of different electroacupuncture on prevention of deep vein thrombosis

Objective To observe the blood flow in lower limbs of postoperative elderly patients during bed-confined period stimulated by different electroacupuncture,and to find the best acupoint to prevent deep vein thrombosis.Methods From January 2009 to September 2010,a total of 160 postoperative elderly patients in our hospital were selected and randomly divided into the control group receiving conventional nursing care(n=40),the group receiving electroacupuncture at Taichong and Zusanli(n=40),the group receiving electroacupuncture at Yinlingquan and Sanyinjiao(n=40),and the group receiving electroacupuncture at above four acupoints(n=40).The blood flow rates in external iliac vein,femoral vein,popliteal vein and deep calf vein were compared.Results The blood flow rates of lower limbs in the group receiving electroacupuncture at Taichong and Zusanli were significantly faster than those in the group receiving electroacupuncture at Yinlingquan and Sanyinjiao and the control group(P0.05),but was not significantly different from that in the group receiving electroacupuncture at four acupoints.Conclusion Using electroacupuncture at Taichong and Zusanli in postoperative elderly patients during bed-confined period can speed their blood flow in lower limbs,and prevent the deep vein thrombosis.