Impact of Preoperative Binaural Beats on Remimazolam Dosage for Anesthesia Induction: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Background: This study examines the impact of preoperative binaural beats on the required dose of remimazolam for loss of consciousness (LoC) during general anesthesia induction.

Methods: In a randomized, double-blind study, 72 patients were divided into two groups: the binaural sound group (listening to 1 Hz difference sounds) and the control group (no sound). The primary outcome was the remimazolam dose needed for LoC.

Results: The binaural sound group required less remimazolam for LoC (15.0 ± 3.6 mg vs. 17.7 ± 4.5 mg, P = 0.006) and achieved LoC faster (140 ± 29 sec vs. 168 ± 47 sec, P = 0.003). Hypotension incidence was lower in the binaural group (6% vs. 28%, P = 0.024). EEG spectral analysis showed no significant differences.

Conclusion: Preoperative binaural beats reduce the remimazolam dose and time to achieve LoC, and decrease hypotension incidence during anesthesia induction, representing an effective, non-invasive adjunctive measure.