Virtual Reality During Lumbar Punctures in Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia

Launched by CHILDREN'S NATIONAL RESEARCH INSTITUTE · Dec 3, 2024

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is investigating the use of virtual reality (VR) to help children and teenagers with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) during a procedure called a lumbar puncture, or spinal tap. This procedure is important because it allows doctors to deliver chemotherapy directly into the spinal fluid, and patients usually need to have it done about 20 times during their treatment. Instead of using general anesthesia, which can have long-term effects on brain function, the trial will see if VR, along with local anesthesia and optional anti-anxiety medication, can effectively manage pain and anxiety.

To participate in this trial, children aged 7 and older who are currently in the maintenance phase of their ALL treatment and have at least two more procedures planned may be eligible. They should be able to speak English, and a caregiver must be able to provide consent and complete study questionnaires in English or Spanish. Participants will experience the VR technology during their lumbar puncture, which aims to make the procedure less stressful and more comfortable. This study is currently recruiting participants, and it's an exciting opportunity to explore a new way to help kids during their treatment.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Initial diagnosis of ALL or Lymphoma (as they receive the same therapy)
• • In maintenance phase of treatment
• • Still have 2 maintenance cycles planned
• • Aged 7 and over
• • Patient able to speak English
• • Caregiver able to complete consent and study questionnaires in English or Spanish
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Relapsed or refractory disease
• • Previously required ultrasound guided LP procedure
• • Already does LPs without anesthesia