Using Virtual Reality as an Alternative to Pain Relief Medication for Elderly Patients
Virtual Reality for Elderly Patients in Anesthesia and Surgical Care
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 |
| Enrollment | 90 (estimated) |
| Ages | 65 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Göteborg University Academic / other |
| Locations | 2 sites (Alingsås, Västra Götaland County and 1 other locations) |
| Trial ID | NCT06649383 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
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.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are elderly patients aged 65 and older who are scheduled for surgery under local anesthesia.
Not a fit: Patients with dementia or cognitive impairments who are unable to cooperate may not benefit from this study.
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 performed: Other studies have shown promising results using VR for pain and anxiety management, indicating that this approach may be effective.
Eligibility criteria
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 this trial is running
Alingsås, Västra Götaland County and 1 other locations
- 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
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.