Innovative Mind-Body Therapy for Enhancing Psycho-Physiological Stability in Patients Undergoing Upper Gastrointestinal Endoscopy: A Randomized Controlled Study.

BACKGROUND

Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy (UGIE) is a crucial diagnostic and therapeutic procedure for various gastrointestinal conditions. However, it frequently induces significant anxiety and physiological disturbances in patients, which may affect procedural outcomes. Mind-body therapy has been proposed as a non-pharmacological intervention to mitigate these adverse effects.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of mind-body therapy in improving psychological and physiological outcomes among patients undergoing UGIE.

METHODS

A randomized controlled trial was conducted at Rajiv Gandhi Government General Hospital, Chennai. Participants were assigned to either an experimental group receiving mind-body therapy or a control group receiving standard care. The mind-body therapy included video-assisted education, breathing exercises, and the Mendelsohn maneuver. Anxiety levels and physiological parameters were assessed pre- and post-intervention.

RESULTS

Patients in the experimental group exhibited significantly reduced anxiety levels and improved physiological stability compared to the control group. Statistical analysis revealed a meaningful association between mind-body therapy and enhanced patient comfort, with improvements in heart rate, blood pressure, and respiratory stability.

CONCLUSION

Mind-body therapy, incorporating video-assisted education, breathing exercises, and the Mendelsohn maneuver, is an effective non-pharmacological intervention for reducing anxiety and enhancing physiological stability in patients undergoing UGIE. These findings support the integration of mind-body interventions into routine endoscopic care to improve patient outcomes. Future research should explore the long-term benefits and broader applicability of such interventions in endoscopic and other invasive procedures.