Using virtual reality to reduce anxiety in children during MRI scans
Virtual Reality Distraction for Anxiety in Children During MRIs (VR-IMAGINE at HSJ) : A Randomized Controlled Trial
This study is testing if virtual reality games can help reduce anxiety in children aged 7 to 17 who are getting MRI scans.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 98 (estimated) |
| Ages | 7 Years to 17 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | St. Justine's Hospital Academic / other |
| Drugs / interventions | chemotherapy, radiation |
| Locations | 1 site (Montréal, Quebec) |
| Trial ID | NCT05909878 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study aims to evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of using immersive virtual reality (IVR) games to manage anxiety in children aged 7 to 17 years who are scheduled for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Initially, a field test will be conducted with 10 participants to assess the effectiveness of the IVR intervention compared to standard care. Following this, a randomized controlled trial (RCT) will be performed to further investigate the efficacy of IVR in reducing procedural anxiety during MRIs. The study seeks to improve the experience of children undergoing MRI by minimizing anxiety-related movements that can compromise image quality.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are children aged 7 to 17 years who are scheduled to undergo an MRI and can be accompanied by a consenting parent or guardian.
Not a fit: Patients with epilepsy or conditions that prevent them from participating in virtual reality games will not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly reduce anxiety in children undergoing MRI, leading to better imaging outcomes and less need for sedation.
How similar studies have performed: While there is limited research specifically on IVR for MRI anxiety in children, similar approaches using virtual reality for anxiety management in other medical settings have shown promising results.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * aged from 7 to 17 years old * required to undergo MRI * accompanied by a consenting parent or legal guardian who can understand, read and write either French or English Exclusion Criteria: * have a diagnosis of epilepsy or any other condition preventing them from playing a virtual reality game * cannot stand a sitting or semi-upright sitting position (Fowler's position) during the preparation as the VR gear requires an angle of at least 30 degrees for head-tracking
Where this trial is running
Montréal, Quebec
- St. Justine's Hospital — Montréal, Quebec, Canada (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Sylvie Le May, PhD — St. Justine's Hospital
- Study coordinator: Sylvie Le May, PhD
- Email: sylvie.lemay@umontreal.ca
- Phone: 5143454931
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.