Effectiveness and Safety of Virtual Reality Interventions for Symptom Management in Adults Undergoing Hemodialysis: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.
Jiayu Deng, Wanyi Liu, Xiu Wang et al.
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In 30 seconds
This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the effectiveness and safety of virtual reality (VR) interventions for symptom management in adults undergoing hemodialysis. Analyzing 19 randomized controlled trials with 1228 participants, the study found that VR significantly reduced pain during arteriovenous fistula cannulation (MD -2.44) and improved physical function outcomes, including gait speed and 6-minute walk distance, while no serious adverse events were reported.
Key findings
- VR reduced pain during arteriovenous fistula cannulation (MD -2.44; P <.001).
- VR improved gait speed (SMD 0.46; P =.01).
- VR increased 6-minute walk distance (MD 74.77; P <.001).
- VR reduced depressive symptoms (MD -3.48; P =.04).
Why it matters
The findings suggest that VR interventions could be a valuable nonpharmacological option for managing symptoms in hemodialysis patients, potentially enhancing their quality of life and treatment experience.