Music-Assisted Relaxation and Imagery to Improve Pain, Stress and Anxiety in Cancer Patients Undergoing Abdominal Surgery, TRANSPOSE Trial
This clinical trial evaluates the effect of the music-assisted relaxation and imagery (MARI) intervention on pain, stress, and anxiety in patients undergoing surgery for cancer in the stomach, pancreas, bile ducts, liver or peritoneal surfaces. People undergoing surgery for abdominal cancer often experience high levels of pain, stress, and anxiety. Managing these symptoms after surgery is difficult. MARI combines live music with guided relaxation, breathing, and imagery which can be personalized to individual music preferences. Music therapy uses music to help relieve pain or stress and promote well-being. Guided imagery therapy focuses on introducing positive and soothing images as a form of distraction. Guided relaxation uses distraction and attention therapies to promote relaxation and flexing of muscles as a method of pain control. Studies have shown that patients receiving MARI interventions were more likely to report a decrease in pain than those receiving music therapy alone. The MARI intervention may be an effective method to help improve pain, stress and anxiety in patients undergoing surgery for cancer in the stomach, pancreas, bile ducts, liver or peritoneal surfaces.