Surrounding electroacupuncture needling for breast mass after acute mastitis

Abstract Objective To observe the clinical efficacy of surrounding electroacupuncture needling for breast mass after acute mastitis. Methods Thirty patients with breast mass after acute mastitis who conformed to the inclusion criteria were given surrounding electroacupuncture needling. Acupoint selection: 4–8 needles were needled around the mass and at Zusānlĭ (足三里ST 36), Sānyīnjiāo (三阴交SP 6), Fēnglong (丰隆 ST 40) and Rŭgēn (乳根 ST 18). Electroacupuncture was performed at ST 36, SP 6 and ST 40. The above treatment was once a day. Treatment for 7 times was considered as 1 course of treatment, and 3 weeks were free from treatment between courses. Color ultrasound in breast was used to examine the breast mass before the next course of treatment, treatment can be terminated if the mass disappeared, otherwise, treatment should be continued. Three courses at most were needed. Results After 1–3 courses of treatment, 16 patients were cured, accounting for 53.3% (16/30); markedly effective: 8 cases, accounting for 26.7% (8/30); effective: 4 cases, accounting for 13.3% (4/30); ineffective: 2 cases, accounting for 6.7% (2/30). Conclusion Surrounding electroacupuncture needling for breast mass after acute mastitis was effective clinically.