Virtual Reality in Reducing Pain and Anxiety in Cancer Participants Undergoing Painful Procedures

Launched by UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA · Jun 14, 2018

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is exploring how virtual reality (VR) can help reduce pain and anxiety for cancer patients undergoing painful procedures, specifically bone marrow biopsies or lumbar punctures. The goal is to see if using VR during these procedures can make the experience more comfortable for patients. The trial is currently recruiting participants aged 18 to 89 who have been diagnosed with any type of cancer and are receiving treatment at the University of Southern California's Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center.

To participate, patients must be currently hospitalized and scheduled for one of the targeted procedures. However, certain individuals may not be eligible, including those with specific neurological conditions, chronic pain issues, or those currently taking certain medications for pain. If you join the trial, you can expect to use virtual reality technology during your procedure, which may help lessen any discomfort or anxiety you might feel. Overall, this study aims to find new ways to improve the care and comfort of cancer patients during challenging medical procedures.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Patient has been diagnosed with any cancer
• • Patient is currently hospitalized and receiving treatment for a primary or secondary cancer at University of Southern California (USC) Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center and Hospital
• • Patient is undergoing a bone marrow biopsy or lumbar puncture
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Inability to sign informed assent and/or consent
• • Patient with an underlying diagnosis of epilepsy, dementia, Parkinson?s disease, primary central nervous system malignancy, brain metastasis, underlying inflammatory or infectious central nervous system disorder, inner ear infection, history of vertigo, baseline visual or hearing impairment, macular degeneration, untreated glaucoma, implantable medical devices or any medical condition that investigator deems contraindicated
• • Patient with an underlying chronic pain disorder, anxiety disorder, depressive disorder, or other psychiatric illness unspecified
• • Patient with active Clostridium difficile infection
• • Patient on any acute (within last \< 24 hour \[hr\]) or chronic pain medication (opioid, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug \[NSAID\], steroid)
• • Patient on chronic steroids \> 10 mg prednisone equivalent daily or other immunosuppressant \> 1 week
• • Patient who is post bone marrow transplant
• • Patient with a body mass index (BMI) \> 35