Rehabilitation
Surgical pain and post-operative complications remain significant challenges in modern healthcare. This research project seeks to transform post-surgical recovery by developing a standardised hypnotherapy tool specifically designed to improve pain relief after surgery. Focused on non-pharmacological solutions, this work aims to make psychological interventions, such as hypnosis, an integral component of perioperative care and deliver meaningful improvements in patient well-being.
The development of the hypnotherapy tool is guided by careful refinement and rigorous testing to ensure seamless integration into NHS surgical pathways. Innovative delivery methods—including advanced digital platforms and immersive virtual reality experiences—are being explored to maximise accessibility and impact. Insights from qualitative studies are helping to shape the intervention, ensuring it meets patients’ real needs and priorities. A comprehensive review of current scientific evidence anchors the approach in proven methods, while ongoing clinical research provides vital data on the effectiveness and feasibility of the tool in everyday healthcare settings.
The next phase will involve piloting the hypnotherapy tool within clinical environments to evaluate its effect on post-surgical outcomes and recovery experiences. Continuous feedback from these real-world trials will guide further refinement, ultimately resulting in a robust, evidence-based protocol. The project’s findings will be used to develop practical guidelines for the wider adoption of hypnotherapy in routine surgical care, opening the door for improved recovery and quality of life for surgical patients everywhere.
NIHR Exeter BRC.
Dr Jan Vollert, Dr Marriane Hollyman, Prof Richard Kyle, Ana-Maria Toth PhD student
Department of Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, University of Exeter, UK, NIHR Exeter Biomedical Research Centre
Somerset NHS Foundation Trust
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