Rapid Reduction of Liver Stiffness Measured by FibroScan After a Novel Deep Needling Technique at Zhongwan (CV12) in Four Cirrhosis Patients: A Case Series

Abstract

Objective: To report the rapid reduction of liver stiffness measurement (LSM) by FibroScan in four cirrhosis patients after a novel deep needling technique at Zhongwan (CV12), and to explore the possible mechanisms from both Western and Traditional Chinese Medicine perspectives. Methods: Four female patients (aged 55–74 years) with compensated (n=2) or decompensated (n=2) cirrhosis who were hospitalized due to worsening of symptoms in April 2025 were included. All received routine integrated inpatient care and conventional acupuncture. In addition, a novel technique was applied: perpendicular deep needling (3 cun, ~75 mm) at CV12, followed by four-direction oblique deep needling at 45°. FibroScan examinations were performed by a single blinded, experienced technician. Results: After 2–4 sessions of the novel needling (hospitalization 5–10 days), LSM decreased by 5.5–11.6 kPa (relative reduction 21%–33%). Abdominal distension and tenderness improved dramatically after the first session. Three patients who repeated FibroScan after two sessions showed LSM values already at the discharge level (plateau effect). One patient with previously poor response achieved a measurable decrease for the first time. Liver function tests improved mildly in compensated patients but remained stable in decompensated patients. No adverse events occurred. Conclusion: This novel deep needling technique at CV12 rapidly and significantly reduced LSM in four cirrhosis patients, likely by relieving reversible factors such as intrahepatic congestion and intra-abdominal pressure. The effect plateaued after 2–3 sessions. The procedure appears safe and warrants further investigation.