Can the Use of Virtual Reality Improve TKA Outcomes

Launched by BELFAST HEALTH AND SOCIAL CARE TRUST · Apr 29, 2025

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying whether using virtual reality (VR) during total knee arthroplasty (TKA) can improve patient outcomes. In this study, all patients will receive spinal anesthesia, which numbs the lower body while keeping them awake. Participants will be divided into two groups: one group will use VR along with a light level of sedation to help them relax, while the other group will not use VR and will receive a deeper level of sedation, which makes them more likely to sleep through the operation. The goal is to see if the VR group can feel less pain and need less sedation, which could help them recover faster and reduce side effects like nausea or confusion.

To participate in this trial, you must be at least 18 years old and scheduled for a routine knee surgery, and you should be generally healthy (classified as ASA grade 1 or 2). However, if you have certain health issues, like severe breathing problems or conditions that affect your ability to use VR, you may not be eligible. If you join, you can expect a supportive environment where your comfort and safety are prioritized. The study is currently recruiting participants, and it could provide valuable insights into improving the experience of knee surgery for many patients.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Patients ≥ 18 years old who are American Society of Anaesthesiologists (ASA) grade 1 or 2 scheduled for routine primary elective knee arthroplasty.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Patients who are ASA grade 3 or 4.
• • Patients who cannot use VR e.g. those with dementia.
• • Patients with an existing diagnosis of delirium.
• • Patients with visual impairment if degree of myopia/hyperopia exceeds the corrective power of the VR headset.
• • Patients with hearing aids.
• • Patients with previous history of motion sickness.
• • Patients with epilepsy, history of black outs or fitting.
• • Patients who will have an operation over 1 hour in duration or any patient who requires more complex surgery.
• • Patients who have requested no sedation during the operation.
• • Patients who have received premedication.
• • Patients who have a general anaesthetic.
• • Patients who do not adequately understand verbal explanations or written information given in English, or who have special communication needs.
• • Patients who are not capable of informed consent.