Effects of classical music on physiological parameters and anxiety in adolescents during transthoracic echocardiography: a randomized controlled trial

Altınbezer, Pelin; Koçak, Ahmet; Kaya, Özkan; ÖRÜN, Utku; ARI, Mehmet

doi:10.1007/s00431-026-07241-6

Effects of classical music on physiological parameters and anxiety in adolescents during transthoracic echocardiography: a randomized controlled trial

Altınbezer P., Koçak A., Kaya Ö., ÖRÜN U. A., ARI M. E.

European Journal of Pediatrics, cilt.185, sa.8, 2026 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus)

Yayın Türü: Makale / Tam Makale
Cilt numarası: 185 Sayı: 8
Basım Tarihi: 2026
Doi Numarası: 10.1007/s00431-026-07241-6
Dergi Adı: European Journal of Pediatrics
Derginin Tarandığı İndeksler: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, BIOSIS, CINAHL, EMBASE, MEDLINE, Academic Search Ultimate (EBSCO), Biomedical Reference Collection: Corporate Edition (EBSCO), Health Research Premium Collection (ProQuest)
Anahtar Kelimeler: Classical music, Anxiety, Adolescent
Sağlık Bilimleri Üniversitesi Adresli: Evet

Özet

Classical music is increasingly used as a non-pharmacological intervention to reduce procedural anxiety. Although transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) is a noninvasive imaging modality, it may cause mild anticipatory stress in adolescents, particularly during first-time examinations. A total of 168 adolescents (10–19 years) undergoing TTE between December 2024 and March 2025 were randomized to a music group (slow-tempo classical music before and during TTE) or a control group. Heart rate and blood pressure were measured before, during, and after the procedure, and anxiety was assessed post-procedure using the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI). State and trait anxiety scores were similar between groups (p > 0.05). Heart rate decreased significantly during TTE in the music group (p < 0.05) but not in controls. Both groups showed reductions in systolic and diastolic blood pressure after the procedure (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Listening to classical music during TTE was not associated with a reduction in self-reported anxiety but was linked to a significant decrease in heart rate. These findings suggest a potential modulatory effect on physiological stress responses. Music may serve as a simple, safe adjunct to improve patient comfort during pediatric cardiac imaging. (Table presented.)