Acupuncture for Enhanced Recovery After Surgery in Patients Undergoing Laparoscopic Colorectal Cancer Resection

"Points of Stomach 36 (ST36), Stomach 37 (ST37), Liver 3 (LR3), Large Intestine 11 (LI11), Large Intestine 4 (LI4), Spleen 6 (SP6), Spleen 4 (SP4) and Pericardium 6 (PC6) will be used. Electrical stimulation with alternating frequency of 2 to 100 Hz will be applied to the selected points (LI4 to LI11, ST36 to ST37, and bilateral SP6).~Rationale of acupuncture treatments will include both traditional theory of harmonizing gastrointestinal function and strengthening vital energy as well as modern experimental and clinical evidence of regulating gastrointestinal motility and other symptom managements. Treatments will be provided by qualified hospital staff (Korean medical doctors) with more than 10 years of clinical experience."

An enhanced recovery program after surgery that was designed and is currently implemented by surgeons, anesthetists, dietitians, and nurses will be provided. The program includes preoperative education, early water/food intake, early mobilization, early removal of Foley catheter and drains, structured nursing care, and nutritional support.