Analgesic Effects of Electroacupuncture in Extracorporeal Shock-Wave Treatment of Gallstone Disease

Abstract

Thirty-four patients with gallstone disease were treated with extracorporeal shock-wave lithotripsy (E.S.W.L.). Analgesia was provided by means of electroacupuncture in ear and body acupuncture points. Electrostimulation was begun about 30 minutes before the start of shock-wave lithotripsy and continued until the end of treatment. The number of shock waves varied between 400 and 1200 per patient. The favourable results obtained with the above method may be compared with those obtained with classical epidural anaesthesia as well as with drug premedication with Droperidol, Fentanyl, and Diazepam. The good sedative and analgesic effect which was obtained by acupuncture widens its field of application.