Music may be the secret key to speeding up patients’ recovery after surgery. According to a study presented at the 2024 American College of Surgeons Clinical Conference, music’s soothing effects extend beyond the soul and even soothe physical discomfort.
Researchers at California North State University School of Medicine have found a convincing link between music and post-surgery recovery.
Where did this interesting theory come from? It started with a close look at 3,736 studies on the role of music in post-surgery recovery.
Thirty-five research papers were narrowed down from this large repository, each revealing a unique story about patient outcomes such as pain, anxiety, heart rate, and opioid use.
Benefits of music after surgerySo how does listening to music affect recovering patients? The results of a collective study provide some interesting insights.
Among patients who listened to music after surgery, self-reported pain levels were significantly reduced. Numerical rating scales and visual analogue scales showed a 19% and 7% pain reduction, respectively.
The analysis also revealed a 3% decrease in patient-reported anxiety levels. Additionally, an interesting reversal was observed with morphine use. Patients who listened to music used less than 50% of their pain medication on the first day after surgery.
Patients listening to music had lower heart rates (approximately 4.5 beats per minute), which promoted effective circulation of oxygen and nutrients and accelerated recovery. Additionally, a lower heart rate means a lower risk of tachycardia, which can cause dangerous heart rhythms.
Music reduces stress after surgery”When patients wake up after surgery, they can sometimes feel very frightened and have no idea where they are,” said Eldo, lead author of the study and professor of surgery at California North State University School of Medicine. Dr. Frezza said.
“Music can help ease the transition from waking up to returning to normal, and may help reduce stress during that transition.”
At this point, another interesting observation was made. Unlike other therapies such as meditation or Pilates, which require considerable effort and concentration, listening to music is a passive experience. It requires no cost or additional labor and can be implemented immediately after surgery.
“While we can’t specifically say that pain is reduced, our study found that patients perceived their pain to be reduced, and we think that’s just as important,” said lead author of the study. said third author Shezaib Reyes. First year medical student.
“Listening to music helps me disconnect and relax. Then I don’t have as much to do or focus on, and I can calm myself down.”
The future of music in surgery
Looking to the future, breakthroughs are expected at the intersection of music and medicine.
New technologies such as personalized music therapy playlists and AI-curated sessions are on the horizon, providing customized treatment based on an individual’s specific conditions and preferences.
The body of empirical evidence supporting the effectiveness of music in medical settings is likely to pave the way for more comprehensive clinical guidelines that incorporate music as a non-invasive and cost-effective treatment option.
This innovative approach has the potential to revolutionize patient care, positioning music not just as an adjunct therapy but as an integral part of a comprehensive, patient-centered treatment strategy.
Researchers have discovered that the hormone cortisol may be the invisible mastermind regulating the effects of this treatment. Listening to music reduces cortisol levels and promotes recovery. However, some variables, such as time spent listening to music, were not controlled in the analysis.
Future pilot programs are planned to explore the application of music in surgical settings and intensive care units.
So the next time you head to surgery, don’t forget to pack your favorite playlist along with your essentials. Don’t forget Dr. Frezza’s advice. Listen to whatever music you like.
Researchers do not favor one type of music over another. They believe that different songs have the potential to help different people post-surgery, as music can provide comfort and familiarity.
The study was published in the Journal of Integrative and Complementary Medicine.
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