Recent studies have explored alternative methods to enhance pain management and reduce anesthetic requirements in veterinary practice. One innovative approach involves the use of classical music during surgical procedures. A recent prospective, randomized, blinded, crossover study about music and canine surgery examined the anesthetic and analgesic-sparing effects of classical music in dogs undergoing skin surgery, along with investigating the role of substance P as an intraoperative pain indicator.
Study Overview
In this study, researchers subjected twenty dogs to three different treatments: Chopin music, Mozart music, and no music. They premedicated all dogs with a combination of acepromazine, butorphanol, and meloxicam, followed by anesthesia with propofol and isoflurane. They made fentanyl available as rescue analgesia. The researchers monitored anesthetic depth using the bispectral index and standard anesthetic monitoring practices. They also assessed autonomic nervous system responses to evaluate the adequacy of analgesia.
The results of the study indicated that dogs exposed to classical music required significantly less isoflurane and fentanyl compared to those with no music. This suggests that classical music can effectively reduce the amount of anesthetic and analgesic agents needed during surgery.
Moreover, the study shows a statistically significant effect of time on serum substance P concentration, which is a pain perception neuropeptide. Notably, there was a significant interaction between the timepoints and the type of acoustic stimulus administered.
Implications for Veterinary Practice
These findings underscore the potential benefits of incorporating classical music into surgical protocols for dogs. By reducing the need for anesthetics and analgesics, veterinarians minimize risks from higher drug dosages. This includes adverse reactions and prolonged recovery times. The study also highlights the importance of monitoring substance P levels. Substance P can serve as a potential intraoperative pain indicator. This provides veterinarians with a valuable tool for assessing pain during surgery.
Incorporating classical music into surgical settings for canines may not only enhance the welfare of our patients but also improve the efficiency of anesthetic protocols. As veterinary professionals, understanding the interplay between music and canine surgery can lead to better outcomes for our patients. Future research should continue to explore the applications of music therapy in veterinary medicine, paving the way for more innovative pain management strategies.
