The effectiveness of catgut implantation at acupoints for allergic rhinitis: A protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND: Catgut implantation at acupoint (CIAA) is increasing used in allergic rhinitis therapy, and many studies have published that it is effective in the treatment of allergic rhinitis. However, it is controversy if CIAA can provide an evidence-based clinical benefit in the allergic rhinitis population. METHODS: We will go through 8 databases, and conduct a systematic review of CIAA and health-related outcomes in allergic rhinitis patients according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews. The primary objective is to assess the impact of Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines on clinical outcomes relevant to allergic rhinitis patients, such as effective rate, life-quality evaluation, and adverse events. Cochrane Risk Assessment Tool will be used to assess the quality of eligible studies according to the Cochrane handbook. RESULTS: The results of this systematic review will provide a synthesis of current evidence of CIAA and we have a specific opportunity to determine the efficacy and safety of it. CONCLUSION: This study will explore whether or not CIAA can be used as one of the nondrug therapies to prevent or treat allergic rhinitis. PROSPERO registration number: CRD42018095074 (https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/#recordDetails)