Using virtual reality to help kids recover after scoliosis surgery
Application of Virtual Reality in Post-Operative Recovery of a Pediatric Scoliosis Patient Population
This study is testing if using virtual reality can help kids aged 13-18 recover better and feel less pain after scoliosis surgery.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 60 (estimated) |
| Ages | 13 Years to 18 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Connecticut Children's Medical Center Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Hartford, Connecticut) |
| Trial ID | NCT06101264 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study evaluates the impact of virtual reality (VR) on pain management and rehabilitation in pediatric patients aged 13-18 who have undergone surgery for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. Participants will engage in VR sessions prior to physical therapy to potentially enhance their recovery experience. The study will compare outcomes from patients receiving VR interventions to a historical control group that did not use VR. The aim is to assess changes in pain levels, narcotic use, and mobility during recovery.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are pediatric patients aged 13-18 undergoing surgical correction for idiopathic scoliosis.
Not a fit: Patients with cognitive developmental delays or those who cannot safely use VR equipment will not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly reduce post-operative pain and improve recovery times for pediatric scoliosis patients.
How similar studies have performed: While the use of VR in post-operative recovery is emerging, this specific application in pediatric scoliosis surgery is novel and has not been extensively tested.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * All pediatric patients (ages 13-18) at Connecticut Children's undergoing surgical correction for idiopathic scoliosis over a span of 12 months Exclusion Criteria: * History of seizures * Cognitive developmental delay precluding participation in VR * Head or neck surgery that does not allow a head-mounted display to be worn safely * Chronic pain requiring the daily use of opioids for more than 2 weeks prior to the procedure * Non-English speakers * Side effects during screening * Patients with vagal nerve stimulators, cardiac pacemakers, and/or cochlear implants that may receive interference from the VR device
Where this trial is running
Hartford, Connecticut
- Connecticut Children's Medical Center — Hartford, Connecticut, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: David Hersh, MD — Connecticut Children's Medical Center
- Study coordinator: David Hersh, MD
- Email: dhersh@connecticutchildrens.org
- Phone: 8605458373
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.