Clinical Report: Assessment of Electroacupuncture with Moxibustion for LARS

Overview

This case report evaluates the efficacy of electroacupuncture combined with moxibustion in managing refractory low anterior resection syndrome (LARS) in a 55-year-old male patient. Significant improvements were observed in LARS scores and associated symptoms following treatment, although some effects partially relapsed after three months.

Background

Low anterior resection syndrome (LARS) affects 60-80% of rectal cancer patients post-surgery, leading to significant quality of life impairments due to bowel dysfunction. Current treatment options have limitations, necessitating exploration of alternative therapies. Electroacupuncture and moxibustion may offer complementary benefits for symptom management in refractory cases.

Data Highlights

Key Findings

• Patient experienced a significant reduction in LARS score from 34 to 11 after treatment.
• Daily defecation frequency decreased from 13-15 to 3-4 episodes.
• Urgency tolerance improved from less than 1 minute to 10 minutes.
• Fecal leakage frequency decreased from daily to less than weekly.
• Systemic symptoms such as cold extremities and abdominal distension improved.
• Therapeutic effects partially relapsed at 3 months, stabilizing at a minor LARS score of 24 at 1-year follow-up.

Clinical Implications

The findings suggest that electroacupuncture combined with moxibustion may be a viable option for managing refractory LARS, particularly in patients who have not responded to conventional therapies. Clinicians should consider this approach as part of a multimodal treatment strategy for LARS.

Conclusion

This case report provides initial evidence supporting the use of electroacupuncture and moxibustion for symptom management in refractory LARS. Further high-quality research is needed to validate these findings and assess long-term efficacy.

References

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