A meta-analysis has found that listening to music reduces postoperative pain, anxiety and reduces the use of painkillers, however the researchers found no effect upon the length of a patient’s stay.
Researchers reviewed 73 randomized controlled trials of adult patients undergoing surgical procedures where music was initiated before, during or after surgery and was compared with no music, white noise, or undisturbed bed rest. The study found no difference in the type of music that the participants listened to.
The researchers believe music could be offered as a way to help patients reduce pain and anxiety during postoperative recovery. They believe the timing and delivery of music can be adapted to the individual patient, physician team, and clinical settings.
Original research paper published in The Lancet on August 12, 2015.
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