Virtual Reality for Pain Management During Dupilumab Injection

Launched by ST. JUSTINE'S HOSPITAL · Dec 12, 2023

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is investigating whether playing a virtual reality (VR) game can help reduce pain and anxiety in children aged 6 to 17 who are receiving dupilumab injections for moderate to severe atopic dermatitis, a skin condition. The study will compare two groups: one group will engage in the VR game during their injection, while the other group will receive standard care without the VR experience. The researchers want to find out if the VR game makes the injection experience less stressful and painful, and if both groups experience similar side effects.

To participate in this trial, children must be between 6 and 17 years old, have moderate to severe atopic dermatitis, and be about to start treatment with dupilumab. A parent or guardian must be present to provide consent and be able to communicate in either French or English. During the trial, participants will have their levels of pain and anxiety measured before and after the injections to see how well the VR game works. It's important to note that children with certain conditions, such as cognitive impairments or epilepsy, won't be eligible for the trial, as these conditions may affect their ability to play the VR game safely.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • 1. between the ages of 6 to 17 years old,
• • 2. suffering from moderate to severe atopic dermatitis and receiving or about to start subcutaneous injections of dupilumab,
• • 3. in the presence of a consenting parent who can understand, read, and write either French or English.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • 1. have a diagnosed cognitive impairment precluding them from playing a virtual reality game,
• • 2. suffer from epilepsy considering the nature of the intervention,
• • 3. cannot be in a sitting position during the procedure as the virtual reality game requires an angle of at least 30 degrees for head-tracking.