Safety of Thread-Embedding Acupuncture: A Multicenter, Prospective, Observational Pilot Study.

Area of Science:

• Integrative Medicine
• Dermatology
• Acupuncture Research

Background:

• Thread-embedding acupuncture (TEA) is a popular cosmetic and therapeutic procedure.
• Real-world safety data for TEA is limited, necessitating further investigation.
• This study addresses the need for robust safety evaluations in clinical practice.

Purpose of the Study:

• To prospectively evaluate the safety profile of thread-embedding acupuncture (TEA).
• To assess adverse events (AEs) associated with TEA in a clinical setting.
• To validate a study design for future large-scale TEA safety research.

Main Methods:

• A multicenter, prospective observational study involving 100 patients undergoing TEA.
• Systematic tracking of adverse events (incidence, severity, duration) for 6 months post-treatment.
• Bivariate analysis to identify factors influencing AE occurrence (e.g., treatment site, depth, patient variables).

Main Results:

• 136 TEA treatments were administered to 100 patients.
• 12 mild, transient adverse events (e.g., pain, bruising) were reported, primarily occurring on the day of the procedure.
• All adverse events resolved within an average of 7 days with no lasting effects; no serious AEs were observed.

Conclusions:

• Thread-embedding acupuncture demonstrates a favorable safety profile in clinical practice.
• Most adverse events are mild, localized, and temporary, with no long-term sequelae.
• Further large-scale studies are recommended to confirm TEA safety in broader populations.