[Effect of transcutaneous electrical acupoint stimulation on recovery of gastrointestinal function after cesarean section].

OBJECTIVE: To explore the effect on the recovery of gastrointestinal function after cesarean section treated with transcutaneous electrical acupoint stimulation at Zusanli (ST 36) on the basis of routine treatment. METHODS: A total of 110 primiparas after cesarean section were randomized into an observation group and a control group, 55 cases in each one. The conventional treatment was applied in the two groups, after operation, transcutaneous electrical acupoint stimulation at Zusanli (ST 36) was used immediately in the observation group, the skin electrode of disposable anti-magnetic buckle was attached to Zusanli (ST 36) and the corresponding part of the inner lower leg, with disperse-dense wave, 30 Hz/60 Hz and 15-20 mA. The treatment was given for 30 min every time, once every 8 h, until the end of the first bowel movement. The recovery of gastrointestinal function after cesarean section (the restoring time of borborygmus, the time of first anal exsufflation and the first defecation time), the time of secretion of foremilk, complications (abdominal distension, abdominal pain, nausea etc.), hospital stays after operation and the satisfaction of primiparas after bowel movement were compared between the two groups. RESULTS: <0.05). CONCLUSION: Transcutaneous electrical acupoint stimulation at Zusanli (ST 36) can speed up the recovery of gastrointestinal function after cesarean section, reduce complications such as abdominal pain, abdominal distension, shorten hospital stays, promote patient nutrition intake and lactation, and improve comfort level and satisfaction of primiparas.