Acupoint Application Combined with Salted Foeniculi Fructus Hot Compress in the Treatment of Mild-to-Moderate Acute Pancreatitis

Key Points

• This research aims to explore the effects of combined therapies on gastrointestinal function, inflammation, and medical costs in mild-to-moderate acute pancreatitis patients.
• 203 mild-to-moderate acute pancreatitis patients were randomized into two groups: 103 received standard care, and 100 received combined therapy with acupoint application and salted foeniculi fructus hot compress.
• Outcomes measured included gastrointestinal function, symptom relief, white blood cell count, C-reactive protein levels, duration of hospitalization, and medical costs.
• In the combined therapy group, recovery of bowel sounds, gas, defecation, and time to a regular diet were significantly shorter (P<0.001) compared to the standard care group.
• Days 1 and 5 showed lower white blood cell counts and C-reactive protein levels in the combined group (P<0.05), with reduced hospital stay and costs (P<0.001).
• Only one case of mild skin redness was noted in the combined therapy group.