In a groundbreaking study, researchers led by Nouri, M.A., in collaboration with Rezaei, M., and Khatony, A., have embarked on a fascinating exploration of how different types of traditional music may hold the key to alleviating anxiety in individuals preparing for general surgery. The impending stress associated with surgical procedures can lead to heightened levels of anxiety, a complication that healthcare providers strive to manage effectively. This study aims to determine whether vocal or instrumental traditional music has a more calming effect on these anxious candidates, ultimately providing insights that could revolutionize preoperative care.
The randomized controlled clinical trial meticulously evaluated the psychological responses of surgery candidates when exposed to two distinct forms of traditional music. Vocal traditional music, characterized by its use of human voice, and instrumental traditional music, which employs various instruments, were the focal points of the research. Both forms of music have their unique attributes, resonating with different emotional chords and evoking a spectrum of psychological responses. As surgery approaches, maintaining a calm demeanor is crucial for patients as studies suggest that preoperative anxiety can lead to postoperative complications.
By incorporating a randomized controlled design, the researchers ensured that their findings would demonstrate the efficacy of music as a non-invasive intervention for anxiety relief. Participants were assigned to one of three groups: those who listened to vocal music, those who listened to instrumental music, and a control group that experienced no music at all. This rigorous approach allowed for a comprehensive understanding of the effects of music on preoperative anxiety, as it eliminated biases and confounding variables.
Participants in the music groups reported experiencing a range of emotions prior and during their surgeries. The melodic lines and rhythms in vocal music created a familiar and humanizing atmosphere, potentially fostering a sense of connection and comfort among patients. In contrast, the instrumental music, with its harmonious configurations and soothing tones, offered a different yet equally effective method of anxiety reduction. This intriguing dichotomy between vocal and instrumental traditional music reveals the diverse means through which music can affect the human psyche.
Statistical analyses were conducted to assess the anxiety levels of participants before and after the intervention. The researchers utilized established psychological assessment tools, such as the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, which provided a quantitative measure of anxiety. These robust methodologies yielded compelling results, demonstrating statistically significant differences in anxiety levels between the music groups and the control group. Such findings not only underscore the potential therapeutic benefits of traditional music but also initiate vital conversations surrounding the integration of music therapy into surgical practices.
The implications of this research extend far beyond the individual experiences of the surgical candidates involved in the study. If music can serve as a therapeutic intervention to mitigate anxiety, it presents an opportunity for healthcare providers to use non-invasive, cost-effective solutions to improve patient outcomes. Traditional music, deeply embedded in cultural identities, may resonate with patients on a personal level, making it an accessible alternative in managing surgical anxiety. Given that anxiety is not merely an emotional hurdle but a physiological one, understanding its management through music could yield critical advancements in surgical preparedness.
As the healthcare community begins to embrace holistic approaches, this study aligns with a growing body of literature suggesting that the environment surrounding surgical procedures can significantly impact patient outcomes. Incorporating music therapy as a standard practice might reduce reliance on pharmacological interventions, which often carry unwanted side effects and complications. With a wealth of data highlighting the efficacy of music as a medicinal tool, its integration into surgical settings could serve as a paradigm shift in preoperative care.
Moreover, the cultural significance tied to traditional music offers another layer of benefit. Patients from various backgrounds could find solace in familiar melodies, forging a connection that transcends cultural barriers. This aspect of music as a universal language fosters an inclusive environment for patients from diverse ethnicities, demonstrating not only empathy but also respect for their cultural heritage. This attention to cultural nuances further validates the essential nature of patient-centered care.
The findings suggest a promising avenue for future research. Further studies could explore the effects of different genres of traditional music, the potential for live performances in surgical waiting areas, and the long-term benefits of music therapy in post-operative recovery. There is a vibrant opportunity to delve deeper into how various musical elements—such as tempo, volume, and the specific choice of instruments—interact with individual psychological states, introducing personalized music therapy protocols based on patient preferences.
One may wonder about the longevity of these findings. Will the positive effects of music on anxiety persist beyond the immediacy of the surgical experience? Future studies could adopt a longitudinal approach to explore the lasting impact of music therapy on overall patient well-being, recovery times, and even postoperative complications. The answers may have significant implications for the design of holistic health programs in medical institutions worldwide.
In conclusion, the findings from this randomized controlled trial emanate with the promise of enhancing surgical care through a simple yet profound intervention: traditional music. As healthcare evolves, it is imperative to investigate and implement creative solutions that address the multifaceted needs of patients. Integrating vocal and instrumental traditional music into preoperative routines is not merely an innovation in patient care; it is a testament to the healing power of art in its most traditional forms. This study exemplifies the intricate relationship between culture and comfort, urging the medical community to embrace the sounds that soothe and the melodies that heal.
The journey towards better surgical outcomes may well be paved with melodies that echo the traditions of our ancestors, invoking calm in the storm of surgical anxiety. As researchers like Nouri, Rezaei, and Khatony illuminate the path forward, the stakes are high for healthcare providers to listen—their patients’ well-being may very well depend on it.
Subject of Research: The effects of vocal and instrumental traditional music on anxiety in surgery candidates.
Article Title: Comparison of the effects of vocal and instrumental traditional music on anxiety in candidates for general surgery: a randomized controlled clinical trial.
Article References:
Nouri, M.A., Rezaei, M. & Khatony, A. Comparison of the effects of vocal and instrumental traditional music on anxiety in candidates for general surgery: a randomized controlled clinical trial.
BMC Complement Med Ther 25, 364 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12906-025-05124-1
Image Credits: AI Generated
DOI: 10.1186/s12906-025-05124-1
Keywords: Music therapy, Surgical anxiety, Traditional music, Preoperative care, Randomized controlled trial.
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