Virtual Reality Games in Pediatric Surgery

Launched by INSEL GRUPPE AG, UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL BERN · Aug 18, 2022

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is looking at how effective virtual reality (VR) games are in helping children aged 6 to 15 manage pain during minor surgical procedures. The study compares the use of VR games to nitrous oxide, a common gas used to help with pain and anxiety during surgery. A total of 100 children will participate, with 50 using VR games and 50 using nitrous oxide. Researchers will measure pain levels before and after surgery by using standard methods and questionnaires that ask about the children’s experiences.

To be eligible for this trial, children must be scheduled for a minor surgery, like removing pins from a previous operation or changing a dressing, and parents need to give their written consent. If the child is 14 or 15, they will also need to agree to participate. However, children who have difficulty understanding the VR program, those with certain medical conditions, or who might not tolerate wearing a VR headset will not be included. Participants can expect to engage in VR games during their procedure and share their thoughts on their pain experience afterward. This trial aims to find out if VR can be a fun and effective way to reduce pain for kids during surgery.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Indication to undergo an elective minor surgical procedure (removal of percutaneous osteosynthesis or pin material or dressing change)
• • Written informed consent by parents
• • Written informed consent by patient if patient is 14 or 15 years old
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Inability to understand the VR-program
• • Inability to fill in the questionnaire because of language deficiencies
• • Neurologic disorders
• • Respiratory tract infections
• • Intolerance of the VR headset or VR gaming procedure