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
| Phase | Phase 4 |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Ages | 65 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 90 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Göteborg University Academic / other |
| Locations | 2 sites (Alingsås, Västra Götaland County and 1 other locations) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | December 16, 2024 |
| Main results expected | August 15, 2027 |
| Study ends | June 15, 2029 |
| Registry record updated | January 13, 2025 |
| Trial ID | NCT06649383 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
- Study coordinator: Pether Jildenstål, Docent
- Email: pether.jildenstal@vgregion.se
- Phone: +46760266658
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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.