VR-PAT for Procedural Pain
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores a new method to manage pain during burn dressing changes using virtual reality (VR). The researchers aim to determine if playing a VR game reduces pain more effectively than standard distraction techniques. Participants will wear a VR headset and a device called fNIRS to measure brain activity during dressing changes. Children and teens aged 6 to 17, who are receiving treatment for acute burns and need daily dressing changes over three days, may be suitable candidates, particularly if they and their caregivers can communicate in English. As an unphased trial, this study provides a unique opportunity to explore innovative pain management techniques.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications.
What prior data suggests that this VR-PAT is safe for use during burn dressing changes?
Research has shown that using virtual reality (VR) to manage pain is generally safe for both adults and children. For example, a review of studies found that adults using VR for short-term pain relief tolerated it well, with no major safety issues. Another study focused on children found that VR could reduce pain and anxiety during medical procedures without causing significant side effects.
Further research on using VR for long-term pain, such as chronic muscle and joint pain, also suggests it is a safe option. These findings indicate that VR treatments, like VR-PAT, are usually well-received by users and have a strong safety record.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about VR-PAT because it offers a new way to manage procedural pain during burn dressing changes using virtual reality. Unlike traditional pain management options, which often rely on medications like opioids or distraction techniques, VR-PAT immerses patients in an interactive virtual environment. This method not only provides a unique and engaging distraction but also potentially reduces the need for pain medications, minimizing their side effects. The use of a VR headset, like the Pico Neo 3 Pro Eye, represents a novel delivery method that could transform pain management, making it more engaging and effective for patients.
What evidence suggests that VR-PAT is effective for procedural pain?
Research has shown that virtual reality (VR) can significantly reduce pain during burn dressing changes. Several studies have found that VR tools, such as VR-PAT, lower pain levels compared to standard care methods. In this trial, participants in the VR-PAT arm will wear the Pico Neo 3 Pro Eye headset and actively play the VR-PAT game during their clinically scheduled burn dressing change. One study reported that patients using VR experienced less pain during the procedure, suggesting VR as an effective pain management tool. Another study found both observed and self-reported pain decreased with VR use. These findings support the potential of VR-PAT to offer significant pain relief for burn patients.678910
Who Is on the Research Team?
Henry Xiang, MD, MPH, PhD, MBA
Principal Investigator
Nationwide Children's Hospital
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for children aged 6-17 with acute burn injuries being treated at NCH burn unit, who need daily dressing changes over three days. Participants must be able to communicate in English. It's not suitable for those with motion sickness, seizures, dizziness from visual auras, or cognitive impairments that prevent study participation.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants undergo burn dressing changes while brain activity is monitored using fNIRS, with some participants engaging in VR-based interventions
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for changes in brain activity and self-reported pain and anxiety levels after the intervention
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- VR-PAT
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Nationwide Children's Hospital
Lead Sponsor