The efficacy of transcutaneous electronic acupoint stimulation for improving postoperative recovery after gynecologic surgery: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND: This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the efficacy of transcutaneous electronic acupoint stimulation (TEAS) for improving postoperative recovery after gynecologic surgery. METHODS: We performed a thorough search of 6 databases until March 2023, identifying 12 randomized controlled trials that met our predefined inclusion criteria and encompassed a total of 1510 patients. For continuous outcomes, we calculated the weighted mean difference (WMD), and for binomial outcomes, we used the risk ratio (RR). We evaluated heterogeneity among the included studies using Cochran I(2) and Q statistics, utilizing a random-effects model when the I(2) value exceeded 50%. To assess publication bias, we employed Egger test. RESULTS: Our analysis found that TEAS significantly reduced the risk of postoperative nausea (RR: 0.60, 95% CI: 0.43–0.83, P = .002) and postoperative vomiting (RR: 0.54, 95% CI: 0.43–0.67, P < .001), visual analogue scale (WMD: −0.47, 95% CI: −0.76 to −0.17, P = .002), as well as shortened the time to first bowel movement (WMD: −18.43, 95% CI: −20.87 to −15.99, P < .001) and time to first flatus (WMD: −8.98, 95% CI: −12.46 to −5.51, P < .001) compared to the conventional group. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings suggested that TEAS may improve postoperative recovery following gynecologic surgery. However, to confirm these results, larger randomized controlled trials encompassing a more diverse range of patient populations are urgently required.