Researchers from Brunel University looked at 72 controlled trials involving nearly 7,000 adult patients who were undergoing a surgical procedure. All of the trials measured how hearing music before, during, or after the surgery impacted the patientsâ recovery, specifically their perception of postoperative pain and anxiety, their desire for pain medication, and the duration of time spent in the hospital.
As expected, the findings showed that patients who listened to music (regardless of whether it was before, after, or during the procedure) reported significantly less pain and anxiety after their surgery, were less likely to ask for pain medication, and also had an increased sense of satisfaction post-surgery. Interestingly, even being under an anesthetic produced the same trend, albeit not as drastically as when the patients were awake during the surgery. However, the music didnât seem to have a noticeable effect on the duration of hospital stay.
Study authors conclude that music may be a valuable toolânot to mention a safe, noninvasive, and cheap oneâwhen incorporated into recovery therapies for patients in hospitals. That being said, itâs important to make sure that the music, especially when played during surgery, doesnât interfere with the medical teamâs ability to clearly communicate with one another.
Sources for Todayâs Article:
Hole, J., et al., âMusic as an aid for postoperative recovery in adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis,â The Lancet 2015;Â http://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736%2815%2960169-6/abstract, doi: 10.1016/S0140-6736(15)60169-6.
Whiteman, H., âMusic may reduce pain, anxiety after surgery,â Medical News Today web site, August 13, 2015; http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/298069.php.