Using virtual reality to improve aneurysm surgeries and patient communication
Official title: A Prospective Observational Study on the Integration of Virtual and Augmented Reality in Neurosurgical Planning, Education, and Patient Engagement
Run by University Hospital, Basel, Switzerland · NCT06565234 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing if using virtual reality can help make aneurysm surgeries safer and faster, while also improving how well patients understand their treatment and feel about their care.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 60 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University Hospital, Basel, Switzerland Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Basel) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | June 10, 2024 |
| Main results expected | June 2026 |
| Study ends | June 2026 |
| Registry record updated | March 13, 2025 |
| Trial ID | NCT06565234 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates include adults with intracranial pathology who are cognitively able to provide informed consent.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients who are unable to provide informed consent or lack the cognitive ability to participate in the study may not benefit.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This observational study evaluates the impact of virtual reality (VR) on aneurysm surgeries by focusing on two main areas: VR-assisted clip planning and VR-assisted patient-informed consent. The study aims to assess how VR can enhance clinical outcomes, improve patient safety, and reduce surgery times, while also examining its effects on patient comprehension, anxiety, and the patient-doctor relationship. By leveraging VR technology, the research seeks to promote shared decision-making and patient-centered care in neurosurgery. The feasibility and cost-benefit ratio of these VR applications will also be analyzed.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved surgical outcomes and enhanced patient understanding and satisfaction during the informed consent process.
How similar studies have gone: Preliminary studies have shown positive outcomes with VR applications in patient-informed consent, indicating potential for success in this approach.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * The patient is able to give written consent (or written consent by legal representative) * Preoperative imaging demonstrating intracranial pathology * Cognitively able to provide answers for the questionnaires Exclusion Criteria: * No informed consent * Adult patients without the power of judgement
Where it's running
-
University Hospital Basel
Basel, Switzerland Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Attill Saemann, MD — University Hospital, Basel, Switzerland
- Study coordinator: Attill Saemann, MD
- Email: neurochirurgie@usb.ch
- Phone: +41 61 265 71 24
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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.