The Effect of Music on the Operating Surgeon is the theme of Dr Anantha Narayanan’s PhD research after he noticed its use in the operating theatre to create a calming atmosphere. He is the recipient of the RACS 2023 Aotearoa New Zealand Research Scholarship, and says the award allowed him to combine his passions for surgery and music.

“With my background in music, I was curious about its role in surgery and the lack of consensus on its effects. This led me to explore the scientific impact of music in the operating room, with support from my supervisors,” Dr Narayanan says.

He embarked on his research by exploring the scant literature on this subject and surveyed surgeons globally. While some favoured background music, others preferred a silent environment for optimal focus. Dr Narayanan conducted trials in both the real and simulated surgical environments.

“Most surgeons reported music improved their mood and reduced mental workload, though some raised concerns about communication. Overall, the feedback was positive.”

He observed surgeons with and without music, and though many surgeons perceived benefits, his research revealed no significant impact on physiological markers like heart rates. “We found that while we could induce a stress response, music didn’t significantly affect their stress levels or performance.” The results suggest that while music may help surgeons feel more at ease, it doesn’t directly translate into measurable performance enhancements.

The survey also revealed most surgeons preferred easy listening, though some disliked music in the operating theatre.

“I am now working on the final chapter of my thesis, focusing on qualitative methodologies. It will explore a variety of perspectives from clinicians to better understand a range of views.”

Dr Narayanan hopes his research will spark discussions that help surgeons communicate their music preferences and shape policies around the use of music in the operating theatre.

“Good surgical care depends on many factors, including the surgeon and team’s performances. Intra-operative background music is a small piece of this complex puzzle. My research is part of understanding this larger picture,” he says.

A saxophonist who plays contemporary, jazz, and Indian classical music, Dr Narayanan has spent the past five years merging his two passions.

He describes the RACS scholarship as facilitating an incredible experience, allowing him to focus on his PhD while on an interruption year from surgical training.

“Managing both clinical work and research would have been difficult without this support. The scholarship gave me the freedom to focus solely on research and grow as an academic on campus at the University of Auckland, under the supervision of Dr Manar Khashram and Dr James Fisher.”

He encourages others to apply for RACS scholarships and advises others to find passion in their research.

“Real research success comes from pursuing questions that truly interest you. When you find a question, you’re passionate about, stay motivated and share that excitement with others. Getting others enthusiastic about your work will help you succeed in finding support and funding.”

Now a second-year vascular surgical Trainee at Waikato Hospital, Dr Narayanan says his experience with mentors at Pōneke Wellington and Waikato Hospital sparked his love for Vascular Surgery.

“These early mentorships shaped how I viewed the specialty. Undertaking a concurrent surgical and academic pathway has been a journey with many challenges, but I wouldn’t have been able to do it without the support and inspiration from whānau.”

It's no surprise that beyond the operating theatre, Dr Narayanan loves listening to and performing music. “It helps me express myself creatively and de-stress, allowing me to maintain resilience and balance.”

Find out about RACS scholarships and grants here.