VR-based cognitive games to help prevent delirium after big surgery
Official title: Virtual Reality-Based Cognitive Stimulation Games for Enhancing Attention and Preventing Delirium in Older Surgical Patients With Cognitive Impairment
Run by The Methodist Hospital Research Institute · NCT07641153 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A VR-based cognitive stimulation game is being tested to see if it can help prevent delirium in adults 65 and older after major surgery.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | Any age to 65 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 90 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | The Methodist Hospital Research Institute Academic / other |
| Locations | 2 sites (Houston, Texas and 1 other locations) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | April 24, 2026 |
| Main results expected | May 1, 2029 |
| Study ends | May 1, 2029 |
| Registry record updated | June 11, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07641153 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Adults aged 65 and older with pre-existing cognitive impairment (MoCA 15-24) who undergo major surgery and are expected to require ICU care for at least three days.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients without pre-existing cognitive impairment, those not expected to require ICU admission, or those with contraindications to VR stimulation 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 pilot randomized trial tests the feasibility, safety, and acceptability of a virtual reality (VR) cognitive stimulation program for high-risk older adults after major surgery. Participants are randomized to one of three arms: VR-based cognitive games, VR movie viewing, or nurse-led reality orientation. The study will look at cognitive function, especially sustained attention, and the incidence of postoperative delirium. Enrolled patients are 65 years or older with pre-existing cognitive impairment and expected ICU admission for at least three days after surgery. The trial is conducted at Houston Methodist facilities with collaboration from the National Institute on Aging.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the VR-based approach could reduce delirium risk and improve postoperative cognitive outcomes for high-risk older patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous non-pharmacologic cognitive interventions show promise, but VR-based CS delivery for delirium prevention in this population is exploratory.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Men and women ≥65 years of age * Have a pre-existing diagnosis of cognitive impairment (Montreal Cognitive Assessment Score of 15-24) * Elective or emergency major surgery with the expectation of admission to the Intensive Care Unit following the surgery for three days following surgery Exclusion Criteria: * Pre-existing Intubation and invasive ventilation; * history of severe mental illness; * admission for a drug overdose; * severe vertigo; * history of severe postoperative nausea and vomiting; * hearing and visual impairment; * preexisting severe dementia (Montreal Cognitive Assessment Score \< 15; and * active delirium at the time of screening for eligibility criteria. * Active suicidal ideation or behavior Screen failure after surgery * Prolonged intubation after surgery (more than 24 hours)
Where it's running
-
Houston Methodist Hospital
Houston, Texas, United States Recruiting -
Houston Methodist Research Insititute
Houston, Texas, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Hina Faisal, MD — The Methodist Hospital Research Institute
- Study coordinator: Hina Faisal, MD
- Email: hfaisal@houstonmethodist.org
- Phone: 346-356-1400
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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.