Using a virtual reality headset during endoscopy to improve operator comfort
Official title: Feasibility and Ergonomic Impact of A Virtual Reality Headset in Endoscopic Procedures
Run by The Cleveland Clinic · NCT07493863 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study will try the Apple Vision Pro headset during colonoscopy, EUS, and ERCP to see if it makes the endoscopist more comfortable and is practical to use during procedures.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 140 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | The Cleveland Clinic Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Weston, Florida) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | March 10, 2026 |
| Main results expected | September 2026 |
| Study ends | December 2026 |
| Registry record updated | March 25, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07493863 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Adults scheduled for outpatient colonoscopy, endoscopic ultrasound (EUS), or ERCP at Cleveland Clinic Weston whose procedures meet the study inclusion and exclusion criteria are ideal candidates.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients scheduled for excluded procedures (device-assisted colonoscopy, therapeutic EUS, cholangioscopy, ERCP in a native papilla, planned mucosal resection >20 mm), inpatients, or aborted procedures will not be eligible and therefore will not benefit from participation.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
The study will use an Apple Vision Pro virtual reality headset during approximately 140 outpatient endoscopic procedures and record ergonomic outcomes using a MYSELF checklist and other measures. Participating endoscopists at Cleveland Clinic Weston will wear the headset while performing colonoscopy, EUS, or ERCP when the procedure meets inclusion criteria. Procedures that are device-assisted, therapeutic EUS, cholangioscopy, ERCP in a native papilla, planned large polypectomy, inpatient cases, or aborted procedures are excluded. The primary focus is feasibility and the immediate ergonomic impact on the endoscopist rather than patient clinical outcomes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could reduce endoscopist fatigue and musculoskeletal strain, which may indirectly improve procedure consistency and patient safety.
How similar studies have gone: Small pilot studies and ergonomic research in other procedural specialties suggest VR and heads-up displays can reduce operator strain, but using the Apple Vision Pro specifically during endoscopy is novel and has limited prior evidence.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Endoscopist: endoscopist at Cleveland Clinic Weston who consent to participate in the study and are performing either colonoscopy, EUS, or ERCP. * Patient: patient undergoing colonoscopy, EUS, or ERCP Exclusion Criteria: * Exclude the following procedures: Device-assisted colonoscopy (e.g.- double balloon, pathfinder, etc) * ERCP in native papilla * Cholangioscopy * Therapeutic EUS procedures (FNA/FNB, Stent Placement) * Planned Mucosal Resection of Polyps \> 20 mm * Inpatient procedures * Aborted procedures
Where it's running
-
Cleveland Clinic Weston
Weston, Florida, United States Recruiting
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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.