Ameliorating immediate postoperative pain with the use of perioperative music

Abstract

The positive impact of music on health has been documented prior to biblical times. Over the past few decades, researchers explored music regarding its effect on pain. Its use in the perioperative period needed further evaluation. This is mainly attributed to conflicting results presented in diverse literature. The research question posed for this dissertation is 'For patients undergoing elective surgery, does the use of music peri-operatively result in the reduction of post-operative pain?' A comprehensive search was conducted including an array of health care databases both local and worldwide. The population to be studied were patients undergoing elective surgery with the intervention of music compared to those with standard care (no music). The outcome was to evaluate if music has a beneficial effect on postoperative pain or analgesia consumed. A total of 20 studies which complied with the inclusion criteria were identified, of which 10 were consequently eliminated following a thorough critical appraisal with the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) and Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials (CONSORT) tools. This resulted in 2 Systematic Reviews (SR)s and 8 Randomised Controlled Trials (RCT)s highly relevant to the studied subject. From the evidence obtained, it was clear that music had a positive effect on pain. Significant results were obtained in the pain score (4 RCTs) and reduction of analgesia consumption (6 RCTs). Significant pain reduction measurement was obtained in both evaluated SRs (59% and 83%). Type of music and duration seems not to have any influence on the music intervention effectiveness. This review shows the effectiveness of music for the reduction of postoperative pain. Given the fact that the application of music is simple, pleasant, inexpensive, nonpharmacological and without any known side effects, it is recommended to include music as part of the normal care practice. Its introduction must include, patient education regarding its use, availability and procurement of the necessary equipment. Further evaluation of its impact on local patients is needed in respect of the difference that might result due to cultural divergences matters. Music was found not to be harmful whatever the result obtained.