RESUMEN
<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To verify the efficacy of electroacupuncture (EA) and acupoint injection on early postoperative intestinal obstruction and explore its mechanism.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>One hundred and sixteen cases were divided randomly into two groups. In control group (56 cases), the conventional western medicine was applied, including gastrointestinal decompression, parenteral nutrition (PN), anti-inflammation and supporting therapy. In observation group (60 cases), on the basis of the treatment as control group, EA and acupoint injection with Neostigmine were supplemented. Zusanli (ST 36), Shangjuxu (ST 37)/Xiajuxu (ST 39) and Dachangshu (BL 25) were selected as main points. Before treatment and after 3 days treatment, the levels of plasma interleukint (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) and motilin (MOT) were determined.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>In observation group, the mean recovery time of bowel sound and the mean frequency of passing gas were less than those in control group (both P < 0.01). After treatment, in either group, the levels of IL-6 and TNF-alpha were down-regulated as compared with those before treatment (all P < 0.01). After treatment, in observation group, IL-6 level was (15.2 +/- 4.1) pg/mL and TNF-alpha level was (18.3 +/- 6.5) pg/mL. They were (35.5 +/- 7.2) pg/mL and (52.7 +/- 12.3) pg/mL respectively in control group, indicating significant difference in statistics between two groups (both P < 0.01). In either group, MOT level increased after treatment as compared with that before treatment (both P < 0 01). After treatment, in observation group, the increase of MOT level was superior to that in control group [(190.7 +/- 48. 5 ) pg/mL vs (114.6 +/- 36.9) pg/mL, P < 0.01].</p><p><b>CONCLUSION</b>Electroacupuncture and acupoint injection are significantly effective in the treatment of early postoperative intestinal obstruction. This therapy may inhibit the release of inflammatory factors to reduce intestinal wall edema and it may promote MOT secretion to increase intestinal peristalsis. As a result, the recovery of gastrointestinal function is promoted.</p>