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CT evaluation of acupuncture needles inserted into sacral foramina
Yuichi Katayama1, Toyoharu Kamibeppu1, Ryuichi Nishii2
1Faculty of Medicine, Department of Urology, University of Miyazaki, Miyazaki, Japan.
Summary
CT scans assessed acupuncture needle accuracy for sacral nerve modulation. Precise S2-S3 foramen insertion shows potential, but specialists should use this technique due to risks.
Area of Science:
- Medical Imaging
- Neurology
- Alternative Medicine
Background:
- TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: 2013-026.
- Sacral nerve modulation is a therapeutic approach.
- Electroacupuncture is a technique used in this study.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the precision of acupuncture needle insertion into sacral foramina using CT scanning.
- To establish the feasibility of sacral nerve modulation via electroacupuncture.
- To assess needle placement accuracy in S2, S3, and S4 sacral foramina.
Main Methods:
- CT scanning was employed to assess needle placement.
- Five adult women (mean age 71.6 years) were divided into two groups.
- Group A (3 subjects) targeted S3 and S4 foramina; Group B (2 subjects) targeted S2 and S3 foramina.
Main Results:
- Accurate needle insertion into S2 and S3 foramina was achieved in most subjects.
- One subject in Group A had misplaced needles in S3 and S4.
- Needle tips in S4 foramina were an average of 6.0 mm from the rectum.
Conclusions:
- Acupuncture needle insertion into S2 and S3 foramina at ~60° shows potential for sacral nerve modulation.
- Higher body mass index may reduce needling accuracy.
- Specialist use is recommended due to potential rectal perforation risk.
