Could a gentle electric zap at key points make emergency gut exams easier for liver patients?

NCT ID NCT07106658

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study tested whether a mild electrical stimulation at specific acupoints (TEAS) helps people with cirrhosis tolerate an urgent endoscopy for suspected variceal bleeding. 180 patients were split into three groups: active TEAS, sham TEAS (electrodes but no current), or standard endoscopy alone. The goal was to see if TEAS improves procedural success and reduces discomfort.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

Transcutaneous electrical acupoint stimulation (TEAS) using a Hwato SDZ-III device

What this could lead to

If it works, this could offer a simple, drug-free way to make urgent endoscopy more comfortable and successful for people with cirrhosis.

What could go wrong

This is a small, completed trial with 180 participants. The sham group may also show benefit, and results may not apply to all patients or settings.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

cirrhosis of liver esophageal varices with bleeding Fibrosis Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • The Fifth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital

    Beijing, Beijing Municipality, 100039, China