In a new study, researchers found that music reduces the need for anesthetics, relieves stress and improves the overall post-operative condition. The research took place in the Indian medical institutions Lok Nayak Hospital and Maulana Azad Medical College in patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy, i.e. standard laparoscopic removal of the gallbladder.
The study was peer-reviewed and published in the professional journal Music and Medicine. It took place between March 2023 and January 2024 and 56 patients between the ages of 18 and 65 participated in it. All participants received the same anesthetic regimen: anti-nausea drug, sedative, fentanyl, propofol, and muscle relaxant. They all also had noise canceling headphones.
However, only one group listened to music – patients could choose from two Indian instrumental compositions, from soft flute to piano. Many chose a flute composition combining the Hindustani ragas Jaman and Kirváni, which the researchers described as soothing and uplifting.
The primary objective was to determine how much propofol was needed to maintain unconsciousness during surgery. Music has proven to be significantly effective. The music group needed an average of 6.7 mg of propofol per kilogram per hour. Control group 7.86 mg per kilogram per hour. The difference was statistically significant. Patients who listened to music also required fewer additional doses of fentanylwhich is administered when blood pressure or heart rate increases during the procedure.
Significant differences also occurred in the body’s stress reaction, which was measured by the serum cortisol level. The control group had an average of 536 IU per ml after surgery. The group with music after surgery averaged 417 IU per ml. Patients who listened to music also woke up more smoothly from anesthesia and were more satisfied 24 hours after the procedure.
The authors conclude that music therapy can be used as a safe and effective non-pharmacological aid to reduce the consumption of anesthetics and to improve the overall result of the treatment without adverse effects.
