Evaluating the effect of music on patient anxiety during minor plastic surgery

The study sought to assess the effectiveness of music on patient anxiety levels during minor surgery.

Eighty patients attending a minor plastic surgery out-patient department were assessed using the Spielberger State-Trait Anxiety Inventory Questionnaire. Forty participants in the experimental group listened to music which was self selected and played during their operation. Forty participants in the control group received the standard care during their operation but with no music. The questionnaire was used to collect data pre and postoperatively. During the recovery period all participants were asked to reflect on their level of anxiety during surgery while completing the questionnaire. Analysis was carried out using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 12.

The postoperative mean anxiety score of the control group was 33.5 (SD 10.6). The mean anxiety score for the experimental group was 30.52 (SD 9.82). Statistical analysis revealed that there was no significant difference among those who did and did not listen to music during their procedure.

Although the researcher did not find statistically significant differences in the selected outcome measures, the intervention seemed to be enjoyed by the patients in the experimental group. Minimising anxiety prior to and during a minor operation may help promote relaxation and enhance patient comfort.