Traumatic complications of acupuncture. Therapists need to know human anatomy.

OBJECTIVES To review the traumatic injuries that have been associated with acupuncture and to discuss how these adverse effects may be reduced by increased awareness of normal anatomy and anatomical variations. METHODS Literature search accompanied by postmortem anatomical studies. RESULTS Traumatic lesions after acupuncture have been described in thoracic and abdominal viscera, in the peripheral and central nervous systems, and in blood vessels. Deaths have been recorded from pneumothorax and cardiac tamponade. The anatomical structure of the body at several acupuncture points is such that needles can reach vulnerable structures. CONCLUSION While the frequency of adverse effects of acupuncture is unknown and they may be rare, knowledge of normal anatomy and anatomical variations is essential for safe practice and should be reviewed by regulatory bodies and those responsible for training courses.