Electroacupuncture for Laparoscopic/ Robotic Colorectal Surgery

In the researchers' words

A multimodal approach for management of post-operative pain is used to improve analgesia, minimize side effects, and improve recovery. Nevertheless, opioid analgesics and intravenous patient controlled analgesia remains the mainstay of postoperative analgesia after colorectal surgery. Opioids are associated with various side effects such as nausea, vomiting, sedation, dizziness, respiratory depression, urinary retention and reduced bowel movement. These side effects are unpleasant and lead to prolonged recovery. Use of non-pharmacological analgesic techniques may improve postoperative pain control and reduce opioid consumption. Acupuncture has been used for over 3000 years in China for treatment of pain and various other conditions. Acupuncture and related techniques are simple and safe. There is evidence that acupuncture can reduce postoperative pain intensity, opioid consumption, and opioid related side effects.