Gynecological Surgery

The Psychological and Physiological Effects of Vibrotactile Stimulation on Patients Awaiting Scheduled Gynecological Surgery

Walters, C. under the supervision of Dr. Jayne Standley, Florida State University

Source: Published Journal Article, Neonatal Network The Journal of Neonatal Nursing,

October, 1995, Vol. 14 (7), p. 41-49

Thirty-nine women admitted to a medical facility for day-case gynecological surgery participated in this study. Some of the women had opportunities to use a portable vibroacoustic mat, using music that reflected their musical taste, immediately prior to having their surgery. Other women had opportunities to listen to the same music via a tape player immediately prior to having their surgery. Both the women using the the VA mat and the women listening to music via the tape player were found to spend less time in surgery than expected, less time in the postanesthesia care unit, and received less post-operative medication than similar women who did not receive a musical intervention of any kind. These findings were all statistically significant (p<0.05). The same women also had a tendency for lower blood pressure following their musical experiences although this finding was not statistically significant. The women who used the VA equipment were found to experience lower reported apprehension (defined as combined ratings of their tension, anxiety, relaxation, stress, and mood) following its use than either the women who listened to music via a tape player, or the women who did not experience either. This finding was also statistically significant (p<0.05). The women who used the VA equipment were also found to have the least fluctuation in blood pressure throughout their surgery. Women rated their experiences with the VA equipment positively stating that it “increased relaxation”, “helped to ease anxiety”, and provided a distraction resulting in “less time to focus on the surgical procedure”.