Virtual Reality for Pain and Anxiety
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores whether a virtual reality (VR) program can reduce pain, anxiety, and distress for men undergoing vasectomies. Participants will either wear a VR headset with a calming meditation program during their procedure or receive standard care without VR. The trial aims to determine if VR makes the experience more comfortable and satisfying. Men who have chosen to undergo a vasectomy and feel nervous about the procedure might be a good fit for this trial. As an unphased trial, it offers participants the opportunity to explore innovative ways to enhance comfort during medical procedures.
Do I have to stop taking my current medications for the trial?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss this with the trial coordinators or your doctor.
What prior data suggests that this virtual reality program is safe for reducing pain and anxiety during vasectomy?
Research has shown that using virtual reality (VR) to manage pain and anxiety is generally safe and well-tolerated. In one study, patients who used VR reported a 22.9% reduction in pain and a 45.0% decrease in anxiety, indicating VR's effectiveness with minimal side effects.
Another study focused on older adults and found that VR helped reduce pain and anxiety during medical procedures. Participants did not report any serious negative effects, suggesting VR is a safe method for managing discomfort.
Overall, these findings indicate that VR is a promising tool for easing pain and anxiety without major safety concerns.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about Virtual Reality Guided Meditation Therapy for pain and anxiety during vasectomy because it offers a new way to manage discomfort without relying solely on medication. Unlike the standard use of local anesthetic alone, this approach immerses patients in a calming virtual environment, which can reduce anxiety and pain perception. The unique feature here is the use of virtual reality as a therapeutic tool, potentially enhancing patient comfort and overall experience during the procedure. This novel method could pave the way for more holistic and less invasive pain management strategies.
What evidence suggests that virtual reality is effective for reducing pain and anxiety during a vasectomy?
Research shows that virtual reality (VR) can help manage stress and anxiety. Some studies have found that using VR during medical procedures might reduce pain and anxiety by serving as a distraction. In this trial, participants in the "Virtual Reality Vasectomy" arm will undergo their vasectomy with the virtual reality intervention alongside the local anesthetic. For vasectomies, one study found that patients using VR reported feeling less pain compared to those watching regular 2D videos. However, another study found that VR did not lower pain or stress during vasectomies and even increased anxiety for some people. While VR seems promising for managing stress and improving patient experiences, its effectiveness can vary depending on the person and situation.678910
Who Is on the Research Team?
Renée El-Gabalawy, MA, PhD, C. Psych
Principal Investigator
University of Manitoba
Premal Patel, MD, FRCSC
Principal Investigator
Manitoba Men's Health Clinic
Ahmed M Zalam, B.Sc.
Principal Investigator
University of Manitoba
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for adult men aged 18 and older who are undergoing a vasectomy with local anesthesia. It's designed to see if VR can help reduce pain, anxiety, and distress during the procedure. Participants must be willing to answer questionnaires and, if in the VR group, provide feedback on their experience.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants undergo a vasectomy with or without the VR intervention, completing questionnaires before, during, and after the procedure
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for pain, anxiety, and satisfaction immediately after the procedure
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Virtual Reality Guided Meditation Therapy
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of Manitoba
Lead Sponsor