ACUPUNCTURE FOR TREATMENT OF CHILDREN WITH HYDROCEPHALUS

Zhao Zhenchuan, Li Yingnan, Lii Lancun, Li Fang, Li Minjie, Li Xiaosan

{Department of Acupuncture, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical College, Shijiazhuang)

200 children with hydrocephalus (138 boys and 62 girls) were evaluated for the effect of acupuncture. The youngest was 40 days of age and eldest 7 years old, 69 cases (34.5%) were considered to be cured; 42 cases (21%) markedly improved; 40 cases (20%) improved and 49 cases (24.5%) failed. Based on traditional Chinese medicine, the pathogenesis of hydrocephalus is related either to the congenital deficiency of Vital Essence of the Kidney, which can not nourish the brain, making it aesthetic or to the acquired disturbances. The main points used were Baihui, Sishencong, Shuifen, Zhongji, Yinlingquan, Sanyinjiao, Fu-liu, Dazhui, Shenshu, and Zusanli. The acupuncture needles inserted were held and turned for 3 minutes in scalp points and rest for ^2 minute, retained needles at the points. Reinforcing and reducing by twisting and twirling of the needles depend on the therapeutic function of the points. Treatment was performed daily, 30 days was a treatment course. Generally, 3 courses were needed. Then the children were followed up at intervals of half a year, 1 year and 2 years after completion of treatment. It is suggested the acupuncture is an economic, safe and effective treatment of hydrocephalus in childhood and is worthy of further study.