Music therapy has emerged as a powerful tool in the recovery journey of colorectal cancer patients following laparoscopic surgery. This innovative approach, explored by researchers from the Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, China, offers a unique and effective way to enhance the post-operative experience.
The study, involving over 100 CRC patients, divided them into two groups: an observation group and a control group. While the control group received standard perioperative care, the observation group underwent an additional preoperative visit to understand the benefits and process of music therapy.
Professional music therapists tailored calming music to each patient’s preferences, age, and cultural background. This personalized approach began on the second day of hospitalization and continued for a week post-surgery, with two 30-minute sessions daily.
The researchers emphasized the relaxing and calming effects of music on muscles and the mind, and its ability to engage the nervous and vestibular systems, aiding in the rehabilitation of bodily functions.
Comparing the two groups, the results were remarkable. The observation group showed significantly faster recovery times, with quicker regain of consciousness and extubation, and shorter stays in the post-anesthesia care unit.
Vital signs, such as heart rate and blood pressure, increased during the recovery period for both groups, but the observation group’s levels were notably lower. Stress hormone levels, including cortisol, aldosterone, norepinephrine, and adrenaline, were also significantly lower in the observation group within 24 hours after surgery.
And here’s where it gets even more intriguing: patients who received music therapy not only had improved postoperative recovery quality but also experienced reduced complication rates (10% vs 40%) compared to the control group.
The researchers concluded that this combination therapy provides a superior anesthesia experience for CRC patients undergoing laparoscopic surgery. What’s more, this approach is affordable and can be easily implemented by trained nursing staff.
This study opens up a new avenue for cancer care, offering a simple yet effective way to enhance patient recovery. But the question remains: could this be a game-changer for other surgical procedures too? Let’s discuss in the comments!