Prospective randomized controlled trial to evaluate effectiveness of virtual reality to decrease anxiety in...

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Medical Technology
• Pain Management

Background:

• Flexible cystoscopy is an invasive procedure often associated with patient anxiety and discomfort.
• Minimizing patient distress during cystoscopy is crucial for improving procedural outcomes and patient experience.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the efficacy of immersive virtual reality (VR) as a distraction technique for reducing anxiety and pain during flexible cystoscopy.
• To evaluate the impact of VR on patient satisfaction and willingness to undergo the procedure again.

Main Methods:

• A prospective study involving 270 patients undergoing flexible cystoscopy, randomly assigned to either a VR group or a control group.
• Anxiety levels were measured using the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, while pain, satisfaction, and willingness to repeat were assessed via visual analog scales.
• Hemodynamic parameters including systolic and diastolic blood pressure and heart rate were monitored in both groups.

Main Results:

• The VR group exhibited significantly lower anxiety levels (p=0.001) and improved satisfaction and willingness to repeat the procedure compared to the control group.
• A significant reduction in systolic pressure, diastolic pressure, and heart rate was observed in the VR group (p=0.001).
• No significant differences were found in pain intensity or oxygen saturation between the groups.

Conclusions:

• Immersive virtual reality is an effective tool for mitigating anxiety during flexible cystoscopy.
• VR technology enhances patient satisfaction and willingness to undergo repeat procedures, presenting a valuable non-pharmacological approach.