Acupuncture for hiccups: A systematic review protocol of high-quality randomized trials

BACKGROUND: A Hiccup is a common disease that often occurs along with other chronic or acute conditions. At present, there is a lack of feasible therapies for hiccups, and acupuncture is a treatment method with enormous clinical practice worldwide. METHODS: Based on a pre-defined search strategy, we searched seven databases and screened them by two independent investigators, without language and publication status restriction from inception to date. We use the pre-set form to incorporate data and utilize Revman software to synthesize data. We will evaluate the risk of bias in the inclusion of the study based on the Cochrane ‘Risk of bias’ assessment tool. The quality of the evidence will be evaluated according to the GRADEpro software. RESULTS: This systematic review will evaluate the efficacy and safety of acupuncture treatment for hiccups. The entire process will be referred to the Cochrane handbook recommended by the Cochrane Collaboration. CONCLUSION: This review will provide systematic evidence to summarize whether acupuncture is an effective intervention in the treatment of hiccup.