Optimal acupuncture protocol improving symptoms of typical dry eye syndrome: meta-analysis and systematic review

Previous meta-analyses have shown a superiority of acupuncture over artificial tear for treating typical dry eye syndrome (DES). However, given that the protocols were quite diverse in randomized controlled trials (RCTs) included meta-analyses, it is necessary to establish guidelines. Thus, optimal protocol involved improvements tear-film breakup time (BUT) or Schirmer test (STT) was examined by RCTs patients with DES. Eight databases until Jun 2018 searched 21 (n = 1542 eyes) comparing effectiveness versus control. Indirect comparison Bucher analysis used find specific acupoints (SAPs) improving BUT STT outcomes between subgroups including and excluding certain SAPs. Meta-analysis based on number SAPs, network meta-analysis multiple pairwise comparisons across using SAPs yield relative effects. The analyses identified nine positive effects STT, relations two both suggested potential combinations three (‘KI3–LI4–SP6’ ‘KI3–GB14–ST2’) four (‘KI3–BL1–EX-HN7–SP6’). Subgroup showed SAP-depending more than compared Meta-regression revealed significant correlations demonstrated 21–30 days, particularly at two–three times per week, can be symptoms These results provide useful information guiding clinical