The role of acupuncture in controlling the gagging reflex using a review of ten cases

The use of acupuncture in controlling the gag reflex in patients requiring an upper alginate impression: an audit

“…In eight out of ten cases it was possible to control the gag refl ex completely and the refl ex was partly controlled in the remaining two cases. 3 Whilst acupuncture can have a placebo effect, the positive results of the current study and of the reported literature outweigh those that would be expected by a placebo effect alone. In the current study, the taking of the fi rst impression without acupuncture has already activated the gag refl ex.…”

“…However, there are two other studies regarding the use of acupuncture in treating the gag refl ex in relation to dental treatment, using another point combination or another technique. 3,7 . In one case the point PC-6 (located on the forearm) was used.…”

“…Other factors such as nasal obstruction, gastrointestinal disorders, heavy smoking, ill-fi tting partial or full dentures, variation in the anatomy of the soft palate, and previous unpleasant experience during dental treatment may indirectly contribute to the exaggerated gag refl ex. 3 Ramsay et al 4 suggest that bad dental experiences result in patients expecting, either consciously or subconsciously, to gag during future similar episodes.…”

“…In a controlled study by Lu, 7 it was established that acupuncture of point Pericardium 6 (PC-6), located on the forearm, had a signifi cant effect on the reduction of the gag refl ex. In an uncontrolled study by Fiske and Dickinson in 2001, 3 it was demonstrated that ear acupuncture was able to control the severe gag refl ex of 10 patients suffi ciently well to allow dental treatment to be carried out. Finally, in 2003, Rösler et al 8 showed in a controlled study that acupuncture at Conception Vessel 24 (CV-24), located on the chin, could control the gag refl ex in patients having transoesophageal echocardiography.…”

Combined use of ultrasound and nerve stimulation for phrenic nerve block

“…Techniques to reduce gagging include relaxation, hypnotherapy, acupuncture and "hypnopuncture", all of which target the neural pathways between the gagging centre and cerebral cortex. [2][3][4] Accordingly, patient-controlled airway insertion, in contrast to physician-assisted insertion, may be an easy and reliable method to reduce gagging in this population. By allowing patients to self-insert the oral airway, they are provided the ability to control the rate of entry, and to control the situation whenever they feel they are about to gag.…”