A new Indian study reveals that playing music during surgery significantly reduces the need for anesthetic and pain medications, while also promoting faster, less stressful recovery. The therapeutic effect of music on patients highlights its potential as a simple, non-invasive aid in surgical care.
Groundbreaking research conducted by Indian scientists demonstrates that intraoperative music therapy can effectively reduce drug consumption during surgeries. The study, involving patients undergoing various surgical procedures under general anesthesia, found that those exposed to soothing music required lower doses of anesthetics and painkillers compared to those who did not listen to music.
Music’s calming influence appeared to lower physiological stress markers such as blood pressure and heart rate, diminishing the intensity of the body’s stress response. Consequently, patients reported quicker emergence from anesthesia, reduced pain perception, and expedited postoperative recovery.
Lead researchers suggest integrating music therapy into surgical protocols as a cost-effective, patient-friendly strategy to enhance surgical outcomes and minimize drug-related side effects. The findings advocate for further clinical adoption and underscore music’s profound impact beyond entertainment—as an adjunct in medical care.
Key highlights:
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Music during surgery reduces anesthetic and analgesic drug requirements
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Patients exposed to music showed lower blood pressure and heart rate stress indicators
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Enhanced recovery speed and decreased postoperative pain reported post-surgery
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Music therapy presents a non-invasive, affordable complement to traditional surgical care
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Findings support inclusion of music in surgical protocols for improved patient outcomes
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Study adds to growing evidence of mind-body connection benefits in medicine
Sources: BBC, Independent, Moneycontrol, News Medical