Using virtual reality to improve the experience of upper gastrointestinal endoscopy
Using Virtual Reality Distraction and Disassociation (VRDD) in Adult Gastrointestinal Endoscopy
This study is testing if using virtual reality can help make upper gastrointestinal endoscopy easier and more comfortable for adult patients, especially those who don’t want sedation.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 30 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | South Tyneside and Sunderland NHS Foundation Trust Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (South Shields, Tyne and Wear) |
| Trial ID | NCT06636292 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This pilot feasibility study aims to evaluate the acceptance and tolerance of virtual reality distraction and disassociation (VRDD) equipment among adult patients undergoing upper gastrointestinal endoscopy. The study is divided into two stages: the first assesses the general acceptability of VRDD for both sedated and unsedated procedures, while the second focuses specifically on unsedated transnasal endoscopy. Approximately 30 participants will be recruited from South Tyneside District Hospital, where they will be informed about the study and asked to provide consent prior to their endoscopy. The goal is to enhance patient comfort and potentially reduce the need for sedation during these procedures.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults referred for elective upper gastrointestinal endoscopy who do not have contraindications for using VR equipment.
Not a fit: Patients requiring urgent or emergency endoscopy, or those with conditions that prevent the use of VR equipment, may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly improve patient comfort and satisfaction during upper gastrointestinal endoscopy, potentially reducing the need for sedation.
How similar studies have performed: While the use of VR in pediatric endoscopy has shown success, this application for adult patients is relatively novel and untested.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion criteria: • Referred with a clinical need for upper GI endoscopy (either transnasal or per oral route) on an elective basis. Exclusion criteria: * Planned therapeutic procedures (including but not limited to polypectomy, balloon dilatation, stenting). * Uncorrected visual or auditory impairments or adaptions (e.g. spectacles) that make wearing the VR equipment difficult. * Cognitive impairment or learning disabilities. * Epilepsy. * Balance disorders. * Referred for urgent or emergency GI endoscopy. Withdrawal criteria: * Patients who withdraw consent from study participation. * Patients who withdraw consent for having the endoscopy procedure. * Patients who request to remove the VRDD equipment during Stages 1 or 2 of the study.
Where this trial is running
South Shields, Tyne and Wear
- South Tyneside District Hospital — South Shields, Tyne and Wear, United Kingdom (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Claire Livingstone
- Email: claire.livingstone5@nhs.net
- Phone: 01914041000
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.