Effect of Transcutaneous Electroacupuncture on Patients With Functional Abdominal Bloating/Distension

Functional abdominal bloating/distension (FAB/D) is a common functional bowel disorder that lacks effective treatment options. Rome IV was introduced in 2016. Studies have shown that bloating may affect about 30% general population and 96% of patients with functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGID).Transcutaneous electroacupuncture (TEA) as a new therapeutic method has great effect on functional gastrointestinal diseases such as functional dyspepsia and functional constipation. Research on TEA for FAB/D has not yet been explored. Thirty patients who fulfilled the Rome IV diagnostic criteria of FAB/D in the department of the second affiliated hospital of Xi'an jiaotong University.Inclusion criteria included: Symptoms of recurrent abdominal fullness, pressure, or a sensation of trapped gas (bloating), and/or measurable (objective) increase in abdominal girth (distention) more than 6 month；the main symptoms appeared in the past 3 months；Not taking related drugs; aged 18-65 years old；From January 2020 to December 2021; Sign informed consent. All patients were randomly assigned to 3 groups and received TEA at Zusanli (ST36) and Neiguan (PC6) with 3 diffrent parameter for 4weeks. The symptom severity score, abdominal girth, electrogastrogram (ECG) and orocecal transit time (OCTT) ,heart rate variability (HRV) ,rectal sensitivity and intestinal flora were recorded at baseline and after 2-week treatment, respectively. The symptom severity score was repeated at baseline and after 4-week treatment. Through the comparison of the index before and after TEA treatment to identify optimal stimulation parameters and explore its possible mechanism. The study was proved by the medical ethics committee of the Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an jiaotong University.