Music Therapy for Pain Management During Hernia Surgery: A Clinical Trial

This innovative clinical trial explores the potential of music therapy to reduce postoperative pain and narcotic use in patients undergoing hernia repair surgery. Conducted by TriHealth Inc., the study aims to determine whether listening to preferred music before and/or during surgery can positively impact pain perception and medication requirements.

Study Design: The research employs a rigorous randomized, double-blinded, controlled design with four distinct groups:

• Pre-operative music only
• Pre-operative and intra-operative music
• Intra-operative music only
• No music exposure (control group)

Primary Objectives: The trial will measure two key outcomes:

1. The highest pain score reported postoperatively (using a 0-10 scale)
2. The total amount of narcotic medication administered in recovery

Patient Selection: The study will enroll 308 adult patients (18+ years) undergoing hernia repair at Bethesda Surgery Center. Participants must be English-speaking and able to provide consent. Important exclusions include hearing impairments, pregnancy, multiple hernia repairs, and current treatment for substance use disorders.

Scientific Significance: This research addresses a notable gap in perioperative care literature. While music therapy has shown benefits in various medical contexts, its specific application for hernia surgery patients remains unexplored. The findings could lead to non-pharmacological pain management strategies that reduce opioid dependence while improving patient comfort.

Implementation: Participants in the music groups will listen to their preferred genre through headphones during designated periods. The triple-blind design ensures objectivity by preventing patients, clinicians, and outcome assessors from knowing group assignments.

With an estimated completion date of August 2026, this study may significantly influence postoperative care protocols for hernia surgeries and potentially other surgical procedures.