Classical music during magnetic resonance imaging in children under propofol sedation

Objective: It has been shown that a musical background assists relaxation of patients undergoing surgery under regional anaesthesia. However, it has not been proven to reduce the amount of anaesthetic agents used throughout the procedure. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the influence of music on pediatric patients undergoing magnetic resonance imaging examination. Study design: After institutional approval and written informed consent obtained from a parent or a guardian, 40 unpremedicated children, aged 8 months to 10 years, were randomly divided into a music and a control group. Patients of both groups were sedated with propofol: 1-2 mg.kg-1 for induction followed by a continuous drip of 6 mg.kg-1.h-1. Additional boluses of propofol (0.5 mg.kg-1) were given if movement occurred or if heart rate increased (> 15% of baseline). Patients in the music group were played classical music through MRI compatible headphones, while patients in the control group had silent headsets. Total dose of propofol used and PACU time were recorded. Results: All patients completed the study protocol. Patients in both groups were similar in age, weight, gender, and pathology. Quality of MRI scannings were similar in both groups. Total dose of propofol used was significantly less in the music group (5 ± 2.17 mg.kg-1) than in the control group (6.5 ± 2.14 mg.kg-1) (P = 0.03). PACU time was significantly reduced in the music group (20 ± 3 min versus 25 ± 8 min in the control group, P = 0.04). Conclusion: Using music during MRI scanning in children resulted in less propofol needed to achieve sedation and a shorter PACU time.