Using Virtual Reality to Help Kids During Cast Removal
A Randomized Control Trial of Virtual Reality to Reduce Anxiety During Pediatric Cast Removal
This study tests if using Virtual Reality can help kids feel less pain and anxiety during cast removal compared to just using regular headphones.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 184 (estimated) |
| Ages | 4 Years to 12 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Gillette Children's Specialty Healthcare Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Saint Paul, Minnesota) |
| Trial ID | NCT03903510 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study evaluates the effectiveness of Virtual Reality (VR) as a distraction technique during the cast removal process for children with fractures. Conducted at a pediatric tertiary care center, it compares the experiences of children undergoing cast removal with VR to those using standard noise reduction headphones. The aim is to reduce pain and anxiety associated with the procedure by immersing children in a virtual environment. The study will gather data through questionnaires and monitoring of physiological responses to assess the impact of VR on the experience of cast removal.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are children who have sustained a fracture in their arm or leg and have no prior experience with cast removal.
Not a fit: Patients with a history of epilepsy, cognitive impairments, or motion sickness may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly reduce pain and anxiety for children undergoing cast removal.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that Virtual Reality can effectively reduce anxiety in various medical procedures, suggesting potential success for this approach.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Sustained a fracture in their arm/leg * No previous experience with a cast removal * Must have at least one wrist free of immobilization (for heart rate monitor) * Parents and patient are English speaking Exclusion Criteria: * Patients with a history of epilepsy, ventricular shunt, motion sickness * Patients with any history of cognitive, visual or hearing impairment
Where this trial is running
Saint Paul, Minnesota
- Gillette Children's Specialty Healthcare — Saint Paul, Minnesota, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Andrew G Georgiadis, MD — Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon
- Study coordinator: Andrew G Georgiadis, MD
- Email: andrewgeorgiadis@gillettechildrens.com
- Phone: 651-602-3262
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.