A virtual reality-based intervention for surgical patients: study protocol of a randomized controlled trial

Area of Science:

• Pain Management
• Psychological Interventions
• Virtual Reality Applications

Background:

• Postoperative pain management is crucial and involves both pharmacological and psychological treatments.
• Traditional non-pharmacological pain therapies have been studied, but novel delivery methods like virtual reality (VR) are under-researched.
• Investigating innovative psychological interventions is essential for enhancing postoperative care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine if virtual reality (VR) interventions, alongside standard pharmacological treatment, offer superior pain relief compared to standard care in adult surgical patients.
• To evaluate the efficacy of VR environments in reducing postoperative pain intensity.
• To explore the impact of VR on pain management strategies.

Main Methods:

• A parallel randomized controlled trial (RCT) protocol involving adult patients (18-65 years) undergoing surgery.
• Participants will be randomized into two groups: standard treatment (control) or VR intervention plus standard treatment.
• Pain intensity will be measured using self-report and physiological indicators, with repeated measures taken before and after the intervention.

Main Results:

• The study aims to compare pain intensity between the VR intervention group and the standard care group.
• Primary outcomes will assess pain reduction efficacy.
• Secondary outcomes will include adverse effects, immersion levels, and presence within the VR environment.

Conclusions:

• The study is expected to provide evidence on the effectiveness of VR as a tool for postoperative pain management.
• Findings will inform the integration of VR into standard postoperative care protocols.
• This research may highlight VR's potential to improve patient outcomes and reduce reliance on pharmacological pain relief.