OBJECTIVETo explore the hemodynamic changes in cynomolgus monkeys with mild carotid atherosclerotic (CAS) plaques after therapy with pushing manipulation on Qiaogong acupoint (MPQ).

METHODSNine cynomolgus monkeys were equally randomized into MPQ group, mild CAS model group and blank control group. Mild CAS models were established in the monkeys in MPQ and model groups, and the monkeys in MPQ group received treatment with MPQ intervention after the modeling. The conditions of the carotid artery and the hemodynamic changes in the 3 groups were evaluated after the treatment.

RESULTSFormation of CAS plaques was detected in monkeys in both MPQ and model groups. The vascular cross?sectional area, plaque cross?sectional area and stenosis rate of the plaques in the two groups all differed significantly from those in the blank control group (P<0.05), but these parameters were similar between MPQ group and the model group (P>0.05). Compared with those in the blank control group, the hemodynamic parameters showed significant changes in MPQ and the model groups (P<0.05) but remained similar between the latter two groups (P>0.05).

CONCLUSIONCAS plaques can cause changes in hemodynamic parameters. Short?term therapy with MPQ does not affect the stability of the plaques or cause adverse effects on hemodynamics in cynomolgus monkeys with mild CAS plaques.