Art Heals: Randomized Controlled Study Investigating the Effect of a Dedicated In-house Art Gallery on the Recovery of Patients After Major Oncologic Surgery. Issue 2 (29th August 2021) - Lone, Zaeem
Abstract : Supplemental Digital Content is available in the text Abstract : Introduction: We sought to investigate the effect of exposure to a dedicated art gallery during the perioperative period on the recovery of patients undergoing major oncologic procedures. Methods: Eighty patients were randomized into 2 arms; standard of care versus exposure to art. All patients completed a survey assessing their baseline art knowledge, and 4 poststudy validated questionnaires assessing their pain (Pain Rating Scale), hope (Herth Hope Index), anxiety (State-Trait Anxiety Inventory for Adults), and mental wellbeing (Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Wellbeing Scale). A linear model adjusted for baseline scores was run comparing the scores among the 2 study arms. Stepwise multivariate regression analyses were used to identify predictors of improved pain, hope, anxiety, and wellbeing. Results: Both groups were comparable in terms of demographics, passion, and knowledge about art. There was no statistically significant difference in pain scores between the 2 groups. The exposure to art group experienced higher hope (2.4 points higher vs 0.05, P = 0.004), lower anxiety (8 points lower vs –0.9, P < 0.0001), and higher mental well-being scores (5.23 points higher vs –0.05, P < 0.0001) in comparison to the standard of care group. On multivariate analyses, exposure to art was significantly associated with improved hope, anxiety, and mental well-being after adjusting for patient and disease characteristics. Conclusions: Dedicated exposure to art was associated with improved hope, anxiety, and mental well-being of patients after major oncologic surgery.