Evaluation of the Usefulness of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Stress Reduction in Minimally Invasive Surgery

Abstract

Objective

  The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of mindfulness on stress during surgical procedures.

Methods

  Physicians who performed minimally invasive surgery were compared to a group of physicians who practiced mindfulness and a control group. Physiological assessment and stress assessment using the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) were performed. For physicians who performed robot-assisted surgery, procedures were evaluated with the Global Evaluative Assessment of Robotic Skills (GEARS).

Results

  Twelve participants in the mindfulness group and seven in the control group participated in the study. The mindfulness group showed significantly lower STAI anxiety than the control group.

Conclusion

  Mindfulness may be useful in reducing stress during surgery.