COMBINED biopsy (CBx), which integrates multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (MpMRI)-targeted prostate biopsy (FBx) with systematic biopsy (SBx), offers high diagnostic accuracy for detecting prostate cancer. However, the increased number of cores taken and extended procedure time compared to traditional biopsies can elevate patient discomfort, particularly in terms of pain and anxiety. This highlights the need for strategies to improve tolerability during CBx procedures.
A study conducted in a tertiary hospital in Turkey assessed the impact of music on pain and anxiety levels in 149 patients with suspicious lesions (PI-RADS ≥ 3 on MpMRI) who underwent transrectal CBx between May and August 2023. Each patient received an FBx followed by a 12-core systematic biopsy. To evaluate the effect of music, 78 patients listened to classical music during the procedure, while 71 used noise-cancelling headphones without music. Ten minutes after the procedure, patients completed the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) and the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (s-STAI, t-STAI) to assess pain and anxiety levels. The s-STAI measured situational anxiety during the procedure, while the t-STAI assessed general anxiety levels unrelated to the immediate situation.
The results showed that the music group experienced significantly less pain, with a median VAS score of 3.6 compared to 5.4 in the control group. Additionally, the median s-STAI score was lower in the music group at 38, versus 44 in the control group, indicating reduced anxiety during the procedure. There was no significant difference in t-STAI scores, suggesting that general anxiety levels remained unchanged by the intervention.
In conclusion, incorporating music into CBx procedures effectively reduces both pain and anxiety. Given its cost-effectiveness, accessibility, and non-invasive nature, the routine use of music during CBx could enhance patient comfort and improve the overall biopsy experience.
Katie Wright, EMJ
Reference
Coşkun Ç et al. The impact of listening to music during MRI-fusion prostate biopsy procedures on pain and anxiety levels: a randomized controlled trial. Scand J Urol. 2025;60:43-9.
