Randomized controlled trial on the impact of music therapy during cardiac catheterization on reactive hyperemia index and patient satisfaction: The functional change in endothelium after cardiac catheterization, with and without music therapy (FEAT) study

OBJECTIVES: To determine the impact of music intervention on endothelial function, hemodynamics, and patient anxiety before, during, and after cardiac catheterization. BACKGROUND: The effect of music therapy during cardiac catheterization on endothelial function and patient satisfaction has received limited study. METHODS: Seventy patients undergoing elective cardiac catheterization were randomized to music therapy (n≤36) or no music therapy (n≤34). Peripheral arterial tonometry was performed before and after catheterization. A 6 item (24-point scale) questionnaire evaluating patient anxiety and discomfort levels was also administered after the procedure. RESULTS: Both study groups had similar baseline characteristics, fluoroscopy time, and contrast administration. Reactive hyperemia index (RHI) change was 0.14 ± 0.72 in the music group and 0.30 ± 0.58 in the control group (P≤.35). Systolic and diastolic blood pressure (BP) changes did not significantly differ between the two groups (systolic BP change -3.3 ± 17.3 mm Hg vs -2.3 ± 19.4 mm Hg; P≤.83 and diastolic BP change -1.9 ± 12.2 mm Hg vs. 2.0 ± 13.4 mm Hg; P≤.23). Heart rate changes were also comparable between the two groups (-1 ± 6 beats/ min vs -1 ± 7 beats/min; P≤.22). Patient satisfaction questionnaire measurements were found to be similar in patients with and without music therapy (8 [7-11] vs 9 [8-12]; P≤.36). CONCLUSIONS: In this study, music intervention did not elicit a vasodilator response, did not lower blood pressure or heart rate, and did not relieve anxiety or stress discomfort in patients who underwent coronary angiography.