Virtual Reality Therapy for Burns
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial examines the effectiveness of smartphone-based Virtual Reality Pain Alleviation Therapy (VR-PAT) in reducing pain during at-home burn dressing changes. The goal is to determine if VR-PAT helps children feel less pain compared to those who do not use it. Children with a burn injury requiring daily dressing changes at home may qualify if they experienced moderate pain during their most recent change.
As an unphased trial, this study provides a unique opportunity for children to potentially experience reduced pain through innovative technology.
Do I need to stop my current medications for the trial?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications.
What prior data suggests that this Virtual Reality Therapy is safe for children with burn injuries?
Research has shown that virtual reality (VR) can help reduce pain during burn care. Studies have found that using VR as a distraction lessens the intensity of pain and diverts patients' attention from it. In earlier research, patients using VR reported experiencing less pain during treatments like bandage changes.
VR treatments have been used in burn recovery and have improved quality of life. No known physical risks are associated with using VR. Therefore, VR-PAT, the VR therapy under study, appears to be a safe way to manage pain for burn patients during recovery.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about Virtual Reality Pain Alleviation Therapy (VR-PAT) for burn care because it offers a novel way to manage pain during dressing changes. Unlike traditional pain management methods, which often rely on medications like opioids or non-drug distractions, VR-PAT uses immersive virtual reality experiences to divert the patient's attention away from the painful procedure. This non-invasive, drug-free approach not only reduces the need for painkillers but also minimizes the risk of side effects associated with them. By providing a more engaging and potentially more effective distraction, VR-PAT could significantly improve the pain management experience for burn patients.
What evidence suggests that VR-PAT is effective for pain distraction during burn dressing changes?
Research has shown that virtual reality (VR) can help reduce pain for burn patients. In this trial, participants in the intervention group will use VR-PAT during burn dressings. Studies have found that VR distracts patients from their pain, which is especially helpful during painful procedures like changing bandages. For example, VR significantly lowered pain levels during treatments. A review of several studies also found that VR can lessen the intensity of pain and reduce the time patients spend thinking about it. In children with burns, VR has shown promising results in lowering pain during care. Overall, VR is a promising tool for easing pain in burn patients.12467
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for children aged 6-17 with burn injuries who need daily dressing changes at home and experience moderate to severe pain. They must be able to communicate in English or Spanish, not have impairments that affect study participation, and have access to a VR-compatible smartphone.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants perform daily burn dressing changes with or without VR-PAT for pain management
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
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
Parkland Health and Hospital System
Collaborator
Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ)
Collaborator