[Response to presurgical stress in outpatient surgery: effects on lymphocyte populations of psychological treatment to prevent surgical anxiety]

Abstract

Objective: To determine the effect of a psychological stress control intervention on lymphocyte populations in patients preparing for outpatient surgery.

Patients and methods: A prospective randomized controlled trial enrolling 74 patients scheduled for major outpatient surgery at the Hospital Universitario de Albacete in Spain. The patients were randomized to a control (n = 37) or experimental group (n = 37). Measurements were recorded at baseline (preoperative visit) and before entering the operating room (just before surgery). The experimental group received treatment in a psychological stress control program consisting of an interview, watching a video, provision of informative literature about the operation and techniques for controlling anxiety. Anxiety was measured with the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory. The General Health Questionnaire (Goldberg) was applied, and lymphocyte populations were assessed (total white cell count; CD3, CD4, CD4RA, CD4RO, CD8, CD56, CD19, and CD56 lymphocyte counts). Values were expressed as means (SD).

Results: The group that received psychological stress prevention therapy had significantly lower CD19 (B lymphocyte) cell counts than did the control group just before surgery. No differences were found between the groups for any other variables.

Conclusions: Psychological stress control therapy prevents a decrease in B cell populations before outpatient surgery.