Our Summary

In this research, the authors studied whether listening to music, with or without hypnosis, could help reduce emotional and physical discomfort in patients about to undergo a breast biopsy. They divided 75 patients into three groups: one listened to music, one listened to music with hypnosis, and one didn’t listen to anything (control group). They measured levels of stress, pain, depression, anxiety, fatigue, optimism, and general well-being before and after the biopsy. They found that before the biopsy, those who listened to music felt less stressed and anxious, while those who listened to music with hypnosis felt less stressed, anxious, and depressed, and more optimistic and generally well. After the biopsy, the music group felt less anxious and in pain, while the hypnosis group felt less anxious and more optimistic.

FAQs

  1. What methods were evaluated for reducing emotional and physical disturbances in patients awaiting breast biopsy?
  2. What were the effects of music and hypnosis on patients’ stress, anxiety, and depression before and after a breast biopsy?
  3. Did the use of audio-recorded hypnosis with background music have any impact on patients’ levels of optimism and general well-being before and after a breast biopsy?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about breast biopsy is to consider using techniques such as hypnosis or listening to calming music before and during the procedure. These methods have been shown to reduce stress, anxiety, and pain, as well as improve overall well-being and optimism. It is important to discuss these options with your healthcare provider to see if they may be beneficial for you during your breast biopsy.

Suitable For

Patients who are scheduled for breast biopsy are typically recommended for a biopsy if they have a suspicious lump or abnormality in their breast that needs further evaluation. Additionally, patients with a family history of breast cancer or other risk factors may also be recommended for a breast biopsy.

Timeline

Before breast biopsy:

  • Patient is informed by their healthcare provider that a biopsy is necessary following abnormal mammogram results or physical examination findings.
  • Patient may experience anxiety, fear, and uncertainty about the procedure and potential diagnosis.
  • Patient may undergo imaging tests, such as ultrasound or MRI, to further assess the area of concern.
  • Patient may meet with a breast surgeon or radiologist to discuss the biopsy procedure, risks, and potential outcomes.
  • Patient may receive instructions on how to prepare for the biopsy, such as avoiding certain medications or fasting before the procedure.

After breast biopsy:

  • Patient may experience pain, discomfort, and bruising at the biopsy site.
  • Patient may receive a preliminary report of the biopsy results within a few days to a week after the procedure.
  • Patient may need to schedule a follow-up appointment to discuss the final pathology results and next steps in treatment, if necessary.
  • Patient may experience emotional distress, such as anxiety, fear, or sadness, while waiting for the biopsy results.
  • Patient may receive support from healthcare providers, family, and friends to cope with the emotional and physical effects of the biopsy.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is the purpose of the breast biopsy?
  2. What type of biopsy will be performed?
  3. What are the potential risks and complications associated with the biopsy procedure?
  4. Will I need to stop taking any medications before the biopsy?
  5. How long will the biopsy procedure take?
  6. Will I be awake or under anesthesia during the procedure?
  7. How long will it take to receive the biopsy results?
  8. What follow-up care or additional tests may be needed after the biopsy?
  9. How will the biopsy results be communicated to me?
  10. Are there any lifestyle changes or precautions I should take after the biopsy?

Reference

Authors: Téllez A, Sánchez-Jáuregui T, Juárez-García DM, García-Solís M. Journal: Int J Clin Exp Hypn. 2016 Oct-Dec;64(4):456-69. doi: 10.1080/00207144.2016.1209034. PMID: 27585728