Healing in Harmony: How Music During Surgery Reduces Anaesthesia and Speeds Recovery

A groundbreaking Indian study is changing how we think about surgery. Researchers from Delhi’s Maulana Azad Medical College and Lok Nayak Hospital found that patients exposed to calming instrumental music during surgery needed less anaesthesia and recovered faster than those who didn’t hear any music.

Between March 2023 and January 2024, 56 patients undergoing laparoscopic gallbladder removal were divided into two groups — one listened to soothing Hindustani ragas like Yaman and Kirwani, while the other heard silence through noise-cancelling headphones.

The results were striking. Patients who heard music during surgery required fewer anaesthetic and pain medications, had lower stress hormone (cortisol) levels, and woke up more smoothly.

Doctors say that even under general anaesthesia, auditory pathways remain active. Calming sounds may influence the autonomic nervous system, helping the body stay balanced and reducing drug side effects.

This approach could redefine surgical care — offering a safe, non-invasive, and low-cost way to enhance recovery and patient satisfaction.

As more research emerges, hospitals may soon consider music as part of their standard surgical protocols. Sometimes, healing really does have a soundtrack. 🎶