Different Acupoint Stimulation for Postoperative Gastrointestinal Dysfunction in Primary Liver Cancer Patients

Application of Different Acupoint Stimulation Methods in the Prevention and Management of Postoperative Gastrointestinal Dysfunction in Patients With Primary Liver Cancer: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Brief Summary (Plain Language) The purpose of this clinical trial is to evaluate and compare the effects of four different intervention measures on preventing and managing postoperative gastrointestinal dysfunction in patients with primary liver cancer. The four measures include herbal acupoint application, transcutaneous acupoint electrical stimulation, the combination of the above two acupoint stimulation methods, and routine clinical nursing. This study aims to provide scientific evidence for the clinical application of acupoint stimulation therapies in postoperative rehabilitation of liver cancer patients.

The main research question of this study is whether acupoint stimulation interventions can effectively improve postoperative gastrointestinal recovery in primary liver cancer patients. The primary outcome measure is the time to first postoperative anal exhaust, which is a core indicator to reflect the recovery of gastrointestinal function after surgery.

By comparing the differences in gastrointestinal recovery among the four groups, this trial will clarify the optimal acupoint intervention scheme to prevent and relieve postoperative gastrointestinal dysfunction in primary liver cancer patients, so as to improve patients' postoperative rehabilitation quality.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Patients diagnosed with primary liver cancer scheduled for initial partial hepatectomy or laparoscopic partial hepatectomy.
• Aged between 18 and 75 years old.
• Clear consciousness and ability to communicate in writing.
• Voluntary participation with signed informed consent.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Patients receiving concurrent chemotherapy.
• Patients with adhesive plaster allergy or allergic constitution.
• Patients with local skin damage, infection or dermatitis at acupoint sites.
• Patients with cognitive dysfunction.
• Patients complicated with preoperative gastrointestinal dysfunction or with a history of gastrointestinal surgery.
• Patients undergoing associating liver partition and portal vein ligation for staged hepatectomy (ALPPS).
• Patients transferred to the intensive care unit (ICU) after surgery.
• Patients with implanted cardiac pacemakers.