A successful application of systematic self-relaxation and self-suggestions about postoperative reactions in a case of cardiac surgery

Abstract

Systematic self-relaxation and self-suggestions were used 3 weeks prior to heart surgery in 1 case. Suggestions focused on feeling comfortable and happy after the operation and on the quick return of normal physiological functions. The recovery in terms of the medical parameters, discharge from the hospital, and return to work was better than average, but within normal limits. A feeling of comfort, a sense of well-being, and optimism about the future prevailed throughout the recovery period. No pain medication was required from the third post-operative day. Despite the possibility of other causative factors, the suggestions seem to have had a major impact. Mediating factors and the advantages of auto-suggestion rather than hetero-hypnosis in surgery are discussed.