Using virtual reality to reduce anxiety in children before dental procedures
The Impact of Distraction During Transition to the Operating Room and Anesthesia Induction Using a Novel Virtual Reality Software Program on Pediatric Perioperative Anxiolysis and Induction Compliance.
This study is testing if using virtual reality can help reduce anxiety in kids aged 5-17 before they have dental procedures.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 58 (estimated) |
| Ages | 5 Years to 17 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Children's Hospital Colorado Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Aurora, Colorado) |
| Trial ID | NCT06283108 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates the effectiveness of a virtual reality (VR) program in reducing anxiety and improving compliance in pediatric patients undergoing dental procedures. Participants aged 5-17 will be randomly assigned to receive either standard care or standard care combined with a VR distraction during their transition to anesthesia induction. The study will measure anxiety levels at various points, including arrival at the preoperative suite and during anesthesia induction. The goal is to determine if the VR experience can enhance the overall experience for children undergoing dental treatments.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are children aged 5-17 who are scheduled for dental procedures requiring general anesthesia with mask induction.
Not a fit: Patients with cognitive or visual impairments that prevent them from using the VR headset may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly reduce anxiety and improve compliance in children undergoing dental procedures.
How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promising results using virtual reality for anxiety reduction in pediatric patients, indicating potential success for this approach.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Ages 5-17 years old. * Patients undergoing general anesthesia with mask induction for dental procedures. Exclusion Criteria: * Cognitive impairment that will impact the use of the VR headset or interaction with the game. * Participants who cannot comfortably wear the VR headset. * Visual impairment that would hinder use of software program. * Patients receiving general anesthesia via IV. * Parent accompanies patient back for anesthesia induction.
Where this trial is running
Aurora, Colorado
- Children's Hospital Colorado — Aurora, Colorado, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Claire Simonsen, BA
- Email: claire.simonsen@childrenscolorado.org
- Phone: 720-777-5313
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.