RESUMEN
Combined with the material characteristics of acupuncture needle, new connection technology and injection moulding technology, and through mechanical test, a new type of magnetic joint for electroacupuncture instrument, with regular appearance and simple manufacturing process, is developed, which can be connected with acupuncture needle in close range. This joint is composed of the inner magnet joint and the outer joint protective sleeve. The new conductive adhesive is used to simplify the manufacturing process. Its advantages include connection with acupuncture needle by magnetic force, being convenient to store when idle and easy to switch to the working state, and quick disconnection in case of emergency. This joint is connected safely and firmly with acupuncture needle by magnetic force, which shortens the operation time, improves the working efficiency, and effectively solves the problems existing in the crocodile clip connector.
RESUMEN
We developed a new electrothermo-acupuncture instrument which employs a curved heating plate, and we compared this new one and the old hitherto used electrothermo-acupuncture instrument in terms of radiation temperature, using two male volunteers. The results showed that the 2nd step in the old instrument equaled the fifth channel in the new one. The radiation temperature increase of 140°C seen in 10 minutes was the same, between the two instruments, but the old one continued to increase its temperature, whereas the new one held at a plateau of about 140°C. Therefore, we considered that the new electrothermo-acupuncture instrument is safer than old one.<br>Next, we investigated the relation between effective Kampo formulas and endurance time in the fifth channel of the new electrothermo-acupuncture instrument, in nineteen patients. We found that Kampo formulas used in the resistant phase of Yang-syndrome disease, is effective in less than 10 minutes of endurance time, and the Kampo formula containing Aconite Tuber is effective for over 30 minutes.<br>We considered, because of the relation between endurance time and Kampo diagnosis, that the new electrothermo-acupuncture instrument can be useful in a supplementary way in deciding Kampo diagnosis.