PurposeLaparoscopic Cholecystectomy (LC) is common practicein treatment of symptomatic gall stones. LC is often associatedwith preoperative anxiety and stress which maynegatively impact postoperative pain perception andrecovery from surgery. The aim of the present study wasto investigate whether a “non-pharmacological” interventionwith guided imagery can reduce preoperative anxiety,postoperative pain perception and medication comparedto standard care in patients undergoing LC.MethodsIn a pragmatic multi-centre randomized controlled study140 patients were randomized to a Guided Imagery (GI)group or control group. The GI group was provided witha CD to practice guided imagery once a day, 7 days priorto surgery. Patients in the control group received standardcare instructions only. Primary outcome measurement wasthe use of postoperative analgesics. Secondary outcomeparameters were preoperative anxiety levels using theAmsterdam Preoperative Anxiety and Information Scale(APAIS), postoperative pain perception (VAS-scale), generalpatient satisfaction (PSQ) and safety (adverse events)with treatment.Results95 out of 140 randomized patients completed the study,43 in the GI and 52 in the control group. The major reasonsfor dropping out were acute LCs or cancellation ofLC. Both groups were highly comparable with respect todemographic data. The majority was female (GI: 77%,Control: 75%). Postoperative morphine use was not significantlydifferent between the GI (15.8±18.5 mg) andcontrol group (12.5±13.6 mg, p=0.34). No significant differenceswere observed in anxiety and postoperative VASscores. Twenty-three percent of patients did exercises1-3 times, 65% 4-7 times and 12% >7 times. Within GIgroup analysis showed significantly less postoperativemorphine use upon better compliance to GI exercises(p=0.02).ConclusionIt is not as simple as replacing a pill with a CD. GuidedImagery seems to reduce postoperative pain medicationonce compliance to imagery exercises is achieved.