Using Virtual Reality to Help Kids During Cast Removal
Official title: A Randomized Control Trial of Virtual Reality to Reduce Anxiety During Pediatric Cast Removal
Run by Gillette Children's Specialty Healthcare · NCT03903510 · Data updated 2026-11-12
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
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 4 Years to 12 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 184 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Gillette Children's Specialty Healthcare Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Saint Paul, Minnesota) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | May 21, 2019 |
| Main results expected | September 2021 |
| Study ends | September 2021 |
| Registry record updated | February 11, 2021 |
| Trial ID | NCT03903510 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are children who have sustained a fracture in their arm or leg and have no prior experience with cast removal.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with a history of epilepsy, cognitive impairments, or motion sickness 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 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.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly reduce pain and anxiety for children undergoing cast removal.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown that Virtual Reality can effectively reduce anxiety in various medical procedures, suggesting potential success for this approach.
Who can join: the full rules
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 it's running
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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
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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.