A systematic review and meta-analysis of Baihui (GV20)-based scalp acupuncture in experimental ischemic stroke

Abstract

Acupuncture for stroke has been used in China for over 2,000 years and nowadays is increasingly practiced elsewhere in the world. However, previous studies had conflicting findings on the results of acupuncture. Here, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to assess the current evidence for the effect of Baihui (GV20)-based scalp acupuncture in animal models of focal cerebral ischemia. Six databases from the inception of each database up to June 2013 were electronically searched. Primary outcomes were infarct size and neurobehavioral outcome. Ultimately, 54 studies involving 1816 animals were identified describing procedures. Meta-analysis results showed that twelve studies reported significant effects of Baihui (GV20)-based scalp acupuncture for improving infarct volume compared with middle cerebral artery occlusion group (P < 0.01), and thirty-two studies reported significant effects of Baihui (GV20)-based scalp acupuncture for improving the neurological function score when compared with the control group (P < 0.01). In conclusion, Baihui (GV20)-based scalp acupuncture could improve infarct volume and neurological function score and exert potential neuroprotective role in experimental ischemic stroke.

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“…Electroacupuncture (EA), or engrafted electric stimulation, is accepted as a common complementary therapy for stroke and post-stroke rehabilitation7. Although the efficacy of EA in stroke treatment remains controversial, most available evidence suggests that acupuncture promotes the recovery of neurological function and thus improves quality of life after stroke891011. However, the underlying mechanism of the enhancement of neurofunctional recovery by EA after ischemic stroke remains to be elucidated.…”

Laser Acupuncture Exerts Neuroprotective Effects via Regulation of Creb, Bdnf, Bcl-2, and Bax Gene Expressions in the Hippocampus

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“…Several previous studies have reported that acupuncture stimulation at the acupuncture points GV20 [18] and HT7 [19] in animal models showed potential neuroprotective effects and improvement of cognitive deficits. However, the molecular mechanisms associated with LA's neuroprotective effects and alleviation of cognitive deficits after brain ischemia are unclear.…”