Virtual Reality for Anxiolysis and Pharmacological Sparing

Launched by CIUSSS DE L'EST DE L'ÎLE DE MONTRÉAL · Jul 25, 2024

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying whether using virtual reality (VR) can help reduce the amount of a sedative called propofol needed during elective breast surgery for women. The researchers want to find out if women who wear a VR headset while having surgery will need less propofol compared to those who don’t use VR. Participants will be randomly placed into one of two groups: one group will experience the surgery with a VR headset and a relaxing scenario of their choice, while the other group will receive standard care without VR. Both groups will still have the option to control their sedation, meaning they can take propofol as needed, with the help of an anesthesiologist.

To be eligible for this study, participants must be female, at least 18 years old, and scheduled for awake breast surgery using a specific type of anesthesia called a paravertebral block. However, individuals with certain conditions, such as hearing or vision problems, a history of seizures, or recent facial surgeries, will not be able to participate. This trial is currently not recruiting participants, but it aims to learn more about how VR can improve the surgery experience and possibly reduce the need for medication.

Gender

FEMALE

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Fully consented female patients above the age of 18 years;
• • Undergoing elective, awake, breast surgery performed under paravertebral block.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Hearing or visual impairment;
• • History of epilepsy, seizure or severe dizziness;
• • Severe mental impairment;
• • Recent eye or facial surgery or wounds;
• • Inability to use the VR hand controller.