Surprise After Successful Treatment of a Patient with Noncardiac Chest Pain Using Acupuncture

Abstract

Abstract

Background:

This case demonstrates a successful integrative approach, using acupuncture and conventional biomedicine, to address noncardiac and cardiac complaints.

Case:

An 80-year-old male presented with noncardiac chest pain (NCCP), diagnosed as Tietze syndrome, with concurrent left-sided hip pain, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and stress. He had an exercise capacity of 140 watts (106% of expected maximum), no signs of coronary insufficiency, and a left ventricular ejection fraction of 55%. His cardiologist referred him for treatment for his NCCP. Written informed consent was obtained. He was given 5 acupuncture sessions of treatment and a percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI; a stent) in the left anterior descending (LAD) coronary artery.

Results:

The acupuncture treatments diminished this patient's NCCP, reduced his cervical discomfort, and increased his tolerance to circumstantial stress and his pulmonary condition, causing an increased exercise capacity. This revealed newly developed typical anginal complaints, pointing toward possible underlying cardiac ischemia. Because of these anginal complaints and signs of plaque instability, the patient's cardiologist performed a coronary angiography, which revealed a subtotal stenosis of the LAD. After subsequent PCI (a stent), the patient has been completely free of complaints.

Conclusions:

Acupuncture was effective for treating the patient's NCCP and other noncardiac complaints, and improved his exercise capacity. During the acupuncture treatment, he developed typical anginal complaints and had a subsequent PCI intervention for subtotal stenosis of the LAD. This case highlights the importance of good cooperation between an acupuncturist and a cardiologist to provide integrative treatment for a patient.