Clinical trial Recruiting at 2 sites Phase 4 Interventional Ages 65 and up

Using Virtual Reality as an Alternative to Pain Relief Medication for Elderly Patients

Official title: Virtual Reality for Elderly Patients in Anesthesia and Surgical Care

Run by Göteborg University · NCT06649383 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study tests if using virtual reality can help older patients feel less pain and anxiety during surgery instead of just using regular medication.

Quick facts

PhasePhase 4
Study typeInterventional
Ages65 Years and up
SexAll
Enrollment90 (estimated)
SponsorGöteborg University
Academic / other
Locations2 sites (Alingsås, Västra Götaland County and 1 other locations)
StatusRecruiting
StartedDecember 16, 2024
Main results expectedAugust 15, 2027
Study endsJune 15, 2029
Registry record updatedJanuary 13, 2025
Trial IDNCT06649383 on ClinicalTrials.gov

Is this trial a fit for you?

Likely a good fit

Ideal candidates for this study are elderly patients aged 65 and older who are scheduled for surgery under local anesthesia.

Probably not a fit

Patients with dementia or cognitive impairments who are unable to cooperate may not benefit from this study.

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This study investigates the effectiveness of Virtual Reality (VR) as a non-pharmacological alternative to traditional relaxing or pain-relieving medications for elderly patients undergoing surgery with local anesthesia. It is a randomized controlled trial that includes both quantitative and qualitative assessments, focusing on patients aged 65 and older. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either standard sedation or sedation combined with VR during their surgical procedures. Data will be collected on preoperative anxiety levels, pain assessments, and various postoperative recovery metrics.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could reduce the reliance on medication for anxiety and pain management in elderly surgical patients.

How similar studies have gone: Other studies have shown promising results using VR for pain and anxiety management, indicating that this approach may be effective.

Who can join: the full rules

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* over 65 years, planed surgery in local anesthesia/regional anesthesia

Exclusion Criteria:

* dementia, unable to cooperate, cognitive impairment

Where it's running

  • Alingsås lasarett
    Alingsås, Västra Götaland County, Sweden
    Recruiting
  • Sahlgrenska universitetssjukhuset
    Gothenburg, Västra Götaland County, Sweden
    Recruiting

Study contacts

Similar studies

Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.

How to take part

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.