Comparison of the effect of preoperative multimedia video information on preoperative anxiety in patients undergoing procedures under central neuraxial block: a prospective, single-blind, randomized controlled study

Background and Aims: Preoperative anxiety is one of the most common perioperative complications observed in patients undergoing surgery. The use of State Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) and Visual Analogue Scale (VAS-A) scores for anxiety has been demonstrated to reduce the preoperative anxiety levels. We evaluated the effect of preoperative multimedia video information on preoperative anxiety and haemodynamic parameters in patients undergoing procedures under central neuraxial block (CNB). Materials and Methods: Sixty patients of either sex, aged 18-60 years undergoing elective surgeries under CNB were randomized into Group V (video) and Group NV (non-video). The primary outcomes included STAI score and VAS-A score assessed one hour prior to surgery. The secondary outcomes involved haemodynamic parameters before performing CNB and, patient's cooperation for CNB assessed by three-point scoring system. Results: Demographic parameters were comparable in both groups. The HR, SBP, DBP and MAP showed a significant increase from their baseline values before surgery in Group NV as compared to Group V (p<0.001). In Group V, STAI scores decreased significantly (p<0.001), while Group NV showed a significant increase (p<0.001). VAS-A scores for anxiety decreased in Group V and increased in Group NV before surgery (p<0.001). Group V demonstrated higher cooperation scores (score ≥2). Conclusion: Preoperative multimedia information was associated with reduced anxiety, better haemodynamic stability, and improved patient cooperation. Employing multimedia information in the form of video may prove beneficial for allaying preoperative anxiety in adults undergoing surgery under CNB.