Effect of DU-26 (Shuigou) Acupuncture Point Stimulation on Regaining Consciousness in ICU Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background: Disorders of consciousness (DOC) among ICU patients present a critical and complex clinical challenge with significant morbidity. Traditional Chinese Medicine proposes acupuncture at DU-26 (Shuigou) as a potential intervention to restore consciousness. Methods: We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials and controlled observational studies assessing DU-26 stimulation in ICU patients with DOC. Comprehensive searches were performed across PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane Library, CNKI, and additional databases. Key outcomes included Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) scores, time to regain consciousness, mortality, and adverse events. Results: Seventeen studies comprising 1,342 patients were included. DU-26 stimulation resulted in significantly higher GCS scores (standardized mean difference = 1.12; 95% confidence interval: 0.85–1.39; p < 0.001; I² = 58%), indicating a large effect. Additionally, time to regain consciousness was significantly reduced (mean difference = –1.95 days; 95% CI: –2.61 to –1.29; p < 0.01). Mortality was not significantly affected (risk ratio = 0.85; 95% CI: 0.60–1.20; p = 0.31). Reported adverse events were uncommon and mild. Conclusions: DU-26 stimulation appears to be a promising adjunctive therapy for enhancing recovery of consciousness in ICU patients. Nevertheless, given the variability in study quality, further high-quality RCTs are required to substantiate these findings.