Music therapy for anxiety reduction in non-acute surgical fracture patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND Anxiety is a common issue among non-acute surgical fracture patients. Non-pharmacological interventions are needed. This meta-analysis aims to synthesize evidence on the efficacy of music therapy for anxiety reduction in this population. AIM To evaluate the effect of music therapy on anxiety in non-acute surgical fracture patients. METHODS We systematically searched CNKI, PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, VIP, and MEDLINE databases for randomized controlled trials. Data were pooled using a random-effects model. The primary outcome was anxiety scores measured by standardized scales. RESULTS Twelve randomized-controlled trials comprising 1257 patients (628 receiving music therapy, 629 in control groups) are included. Music therapy markedly reduces anxiety [the standardized mean difference (SMD) = -2.09, 95%confidence interval (CI): -2.63 to -1.55), P < 0.001], pain (SMD = -2.22, 95%CI: -3.39 to -1.05, P < 0.001) and depression (SMD = -2.05, 95%CI: -3.75 to -1.25, P < 0.001) vs standard care. CONCLUSION Music therapy significantly reduces anxiety in non-acute surgical fracture patients and should be considered as a complementary therapy.