Risk Analysis of Pneumothorax Caused by Acupuncture and its Prevention and Control

Abstract

Although acupuncture therapy has a record of effectiveness and safety, the safety of acupuncture therapy requires both systematized professional skills and standardized application. In fact, acupuncture therapy has potential risk. Pneumothorax caused by acupuncture is a serious injury caused by this therapy. The causes are mainly related to improper needling depth, angle, manipulation, and selection of acupoints. In China, the medical institutions in which pneumothorax by acupuncture occurs are mainly community clinics, which reflects the lack of professional training of acupuncture practitioners in grass-roots medical and health institutions. Its prevention and control are discussed.