Feasibility and Acceptability of Perioperative Application of Biofeedback-Based Virtual Reality vs Control for Pain and Anxiety in Children and Adolescents Undergoing Surgery: Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial.
Anna M Lin, Brenna Rachwal, Lindsey Asti et al.
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In 30 seconds
This pilot randomized controlled trial evaluated the feasibility and acceptability of biofeedback-based virtual reality (VR-BF) in children and adolescents aged 12 to 18 undergoing surgery. Among 70 enrolled participants, 65 completed the study, demonstrating high retention and satisfaction. Notably, VR-BF patients with baseline pain and anxiety scores ≥2 experienced a median 1-point reduction in pain intensity, unpleasantness, and anxiety immediately and up to 30 minutes post-session.
Key findings
- Of 202 eligible patients, 70 were enrolled, with a completion rate of 92.9%.
- Participants in the VR-BF group completed a median of 4 preoperative and 7 postoperative sessions.
- Only 2 (6.7%) participants indicated they would not use VR-BF again.
- VR-BF patients with baseline pain and anxiety scores ≥2 reported a median 1-point reduction in pain intensity.
Why it matters
The study highlights the potential of VR-BF as a non-pharmacological intervention to manage pain and anxiety in pediatric surgical patients, suggesting a promising avenue for enhancing perioperative care.