Effect of electroacupuncture on postoperative cognitive function in elderly patients undergoing carot-id endarterectomy / 中华麻醉学杂志

ABSTRACT

Objective To evaluate the effect of electroacupuncture on postoperative cognitive func?tion in elderly patients undergoing carotid endarterectomy. Methods Fifty patients of both sexes, aged≥65 yr, of American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status Ⅱ orⅢ, with the educational level≥ the level of primary school, scheduled for elective unilateral carotid endarterectomy, were divided into 2 groups ( n=25 each) using a random number table control group ( group C) and electroacupuncture group ( group EA). In group EA, electroacupuncture (frequency 2∕100 Hz, intensity 5-12 mA) of Baihui (GV20), Neiguan (PC6) and Zusanli (ST36) was performed throughout surgery starting from 30 min before opera?tion, and then general anesthesia was performed. General anesthesia was performed directly in group C. Before operation ( T0 ) , at the end of operation ( T1 ) and at 24 h after operation ( T2 ) , blood samples were collected from the internal jugular vein for determination of plasma S?100βprotein, tumor necrosis factor?αand brain?derived neurotrophic factor ( BDNF) concentrations by enzyme?linked immunosorbent assay. The cognitive function was assessed using Montreal Cognitive Assessment at T0,2 and at 3 and 7 days after opera?tion ( T3,4 ) . Results Compared with group C, the Montreal Cognitive Assessment scores were significantly increased at T2?4 , the plasma S?100β protein and tumor necrosis factor?α concentrations were significantly decreased at T1,2 , and the plasma BDNF concentrations were significantly increased at T2 in group EA ( P promotion of BDNF production and reduction of brain injury.