The Effect of TEAS on the Quality of Early Recovery

According to the theory of traditional Chinese medicine, bilateral Baihui (GV20), Yingtang (EX-HN3), Zusanli (ST36) and Neiguan (PC6) were chosen as the acupuncture points. These acupoints were identified according to the traditional anatomic localization . Gel electrodes were applied to the skin after it had been cleaned with ethyl alcohol. The acupoints were then stimulated electrically with an intensity of 12-15 mA and dense-disperse frequency of 2/100 Hz for 30 min, using the Hwato electronic acupuncture treatment instrument (model No. SDZ-V, Suzhou Medical Appliances Co., Ltd, Suzhou, China). The intensity was adjusted to maintain a slight twitching of local muscles according to individual maximum tolerance, indicating a satisfactory of De-Qi phenomenon and thus adequate stimulation.

The patients in the Con group had the electrodes applied at the same acupoints, but received no stimulation.

Anesthesia was induced i.v. with propofol (2 mg kg-1) and remifentanil (1 μg kg-1) using a target-controlled infusion (TCI) system. After loss of consciousness, vecuronium (0.1 mg kg-1) was administered i.v.

Patients' lungs were mechanically ventilated in a volume-controlled mode with a tidal volume of 8ml kg-1 body weight during the operation.