Immersive VR for improving upper limb function in critically ill ICU patients
Official title: Effectiveness of Virtual Reality in Functionality of Upper Limb in Critically Ill Patients (EVOLUTION)
Run by National and Kapodistrian University of Athens · NCT07901855 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This trial tests whether fully immersive virtual reality training added to standard ICU rehabilitation can help improve upper limb strength and coordination in adults with ICU-acquired weakness.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 48 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | National and Kapodistrian University of Athens Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Athens, Attica) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | April 3, 2026 |
| Main results expected | June 10, 2027 |
| Study ends | September 10, 2027 |
| Registry record updated | October 28, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07901855 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Adults 18 and older who are critically ill, have ICU-acquired weakness with upper limb involvement, and have been in the ICU for at least 10 days with stable clinical status.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with severe cognitive, visual, or vestibular impairments or those unable to control head movements may not benefit.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This interventional study compares standard ICU rehabilitation with and without fully immersive virtual reality motor and sensorimotor training. Eligible participants are adults with ICU-acquired weakness after at least 10 days in the ICU, with stable condition and upper limb weakness. Participants are allocated to groups based on age and muscle weakness, and the VR group receives familiarization before additional VR sessions alongside conventional physiotherapy and occupational therapy. Outcomes focus on upper limb function, eye-hand coordination, and related rehabilitation measures. Conducted at Evangelismos General Hospital in Athens, the trial is sponsored by the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens with collaboration from the University of West Attica.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, patients could gain improved upper limb function and better engagement in daily activities after critical illness.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research in rehabilitation has shown benefits of VR for motor function in other populations, but this specific ICU-wide, fully immersive VR approach is relatively novel.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Critically ill patients * From all diagnostic categories * Age 18 years or older * Stabel clinical condition * Presence of upper limb weakness * ICU stay at least 10 days * Regardless of educational level * Provision of written consent form Exclusion Criteria: * Diagnosed intellectual disability IQ≤70 * Pre-existing cognitive impairment * Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) \< 12 * Visual impairments or need for visual aids * ICU delirium (CAM-ICU positive) * Inability to control head movements * Nausea * Paralysis of both upper limbs * Reduced communication ability * Recent or current epileptic seizure * Acute, active psychiatric symptoms * Cranial bone defect/fracture/pressure ulcer/surgical head wound * Age \< 18 * History of vertigo or other vestibular disorders * Participation in another research protocol * ICU stay \<10 days * Death
Where it's running
-
Evangelismos General Hospital of Athens
Athens, Attica, Greece Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Eleni Magira, PhD — National and Kapodistrian University of Athens
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.