Exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease as an indication for computerized electroacupuncture: results of prospective clinical studies

The purpose of the study is to evaluate the effect of the phase (exacerbation / remission) of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) on the effectiveness of computerized electroacupuncture (CEAP). Materials and Methods. COPD patients took part in a two-stage study. During the first study phase, 80 COPD patients were randomized into two equal groups, regardless of the disease phase. Group I patients underwent a 5-day CEAP combined with standard pharmacotherapy, group II patients received isolated pharmacotherapy. The second study phase involved 33 patients with COPD exacerbation (Group O) and 32 patients with COPD remission (Group P), These patients underwent standard pharmacotherapy and a 5-day CEAP. The treatment effectiveness was evaluated according to the dynamics ofrespiratory function and the mMRC dyspnea scale. Results. At the first phase, the parameters of respiratory function and mMRC questionnaire did not have any significant changes in both comparison groups. However, in patients with COPD exacerbation, the rate of a positive clinical response was higher than in patients in remission (59 % and 17 %, respectively). During the second phase, in Group O, CEAP was accompanied by an increase in respiratory function and a decrease in dyspnea severity (mMRC questionnaire). In group P, the parameters did not change significantly. Conclusion. CEAP is more effective in COPD treatment if it is used during the exacerbation phase.