Electroacupuncture on a Patient with Pacemaker: A Case Report

Abstract

Electroacupuncture (EA) is commonly used for pain relief, with good results even in persistent chronic pain. However, published reports suggest that EA should not be used in patients who have pacemaker, since there is a theoretical risk of malfunction of the pacemaker. The case is described of a 50-year-old female patient, who has had severe low back pain resistant both to conventional and unconventional treatment methods. The only treatment that seemed to have some positive effect, but of extremely short duration, was acupuncture. Her condition deteriorated considerably, and after due consideration she was treated with EA. Even after the fi rst EA treatment, the patient's condition improved. Since then, she has received many EA courses during the past 2 years without any complications or side effects. The results of this case study suggest that EA might be a safe alternative for patients with a pacemaker, confi rming the current recommendations on use. Every patient should be considered with care, individually.

Adverse events related to electroacupuncture: a systematic review of single case studies and case series

“…A case of a woman with a pacemaker who underwent many sessions of EA treatment over 2 years without any AEs has been reported. 56 If the electrical current does not pass across the chest, EA can be safely used for patients with pacemakers. Thus, in these cases, EA, although not contraindicated, is recommended only when performed in a carefully controlled manner and environment.…”

Acupuncture in Cardiology

“…A recently published systematic review of randomized controlled trials failed to provide conclusive evidence in support of acupuncture treatment for cardiac arrhythmias [55]. Furthermore, electro-acupuncture may interfere with demand pacemakers [56], although one recent case report from Greece indicated its safety [57]. Electo-acupuncture may also trigger inappropriate ICD discharges [58,59].…”

Safety Aspects of Electroacupuncture

“…16 So the presence of an ICD or pacemaker is not necessarily a contraindication to the use of EA; however, it is always wise to take advice from the patient's cardiologist, and if there is a potential cause for concern, and the patient has previously had great benefi t from EA, a trial of treatment in a controlled environment is recommended. 17 …”