Clinical observations of integrated traditional Chinese medicine rehabilitation interventions after the treat-ment of severe organophosphorus pesticide poisoning

Hao Wu¹, Xueying Du¹, Hao Su¹, Li Wang^2*, Xiaobing Li^3*

¹Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Bazhong Central Hospital, Bazhong 636000, China.

²Department of Occupational Disease and Clinical Toxicology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical and Pharmaceutical College, Chongqing 400060, China.

³Science and Technology Industry Development Center, Chongqing Medical and Pharmaceutical College, Chongqing 401331, China.

L.W. and X.L. were co-corresponding authors.

*Correspondence:

Li Wang; Email: w118982707172@163.com

corresponding author:Xiaobing Li; Email: xiaobing.li@cqmpc.edu.cn

Abstract

Background  Acute organophosphorus pesticide poisoning (AOPP) is one of the most common critical conditions encountered in clinical practice, with an estimated annual incidence exceeding 3 million cases worldwide. Most cases of AOPP result from accidental ingestion or deliberate self-poisoning. Owing to its high toxicity, AOPP can lead to multi-organ dysfunction affecting the lungs, liver, and kidneys, and may be fatal in severe cases. Although conventional emergency treatments have markedly improved survival rates, many patients experience long-term complications such as neuromuscular deficits, respiratory dysfunction, and impaired ability to perform activities of daily living. Therefore, it is essential to develop effective post-acute rehabilitation strategies.

Objective To describe the clinical course and review the effectiveness of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) rehabilitation strategies after severe AOPP.

Methods This paper presents the clinical course of a patient with severe AOPP who underwent comprehensive rehabilitation using TCM comprising acupuncture, electrotherapy, pulmonary and swallowing function training, and herbal adjuvant therapy.

Results Following the integration of TCM rehabilitation with conventional supportive care, the patient demonstrated substantial improvements in muscle strength, respiratory function, swallowing ability, and overall functional independence.

Conclusion TCM-based comprehensive rehabilitation may serve as a valuable adjunct to standard care in patients recovering from AOPP. Early implementation of TCM-based rehabilitation may facilitate functional recovery and improve long-term outcomes. Further clinical studies are warranted to confirm the broader applicability of TCM-based rehabilitation.

Keywords:intensive care unit, acute skin failure, meta-analysis, systematic review, nursing