Virtual reality for the treatment of postoperative pain after laparoscopic hysterectomy for benign Indications: A randomized controlled trial

The primary objective of this study was to determine if immediate post-operative use of virtual reality impacts pain scores or opioid consumption following hysterectomy.

A randomized controlled trial was performed at a university associated tertiary referral hospital in the United States among patients undergoing laparoscopic hysterectomy for benign indications. Prior to surgery, participants were randomized to use a VR program versus routine care postoperatively in the post anesthesia care unit. Postoperative pain was measured using visual analogue scale, and morphine milligram equivalent to quantify narcotic usage. Patient satisfaction was assessed with a survey. A total of 15 patients were randomized to the virtual reality intervention and 15 to the standard care group. The test statistic was a one-sided T-test, with a significance level targeted of 0.05. Categorical variables were analyzed using chi-square analysis and t-test for continuous variables. Pain score differences between the virtual reality and standard care groups at each time assessment were compared using the Wilcoxon Rank Sum test.

The use of virtual reality did not significantly affect pain scores or postoperative narcotics required; however, it did have a positive impact on the subject's perception of their postoperative course. No adverse events were reported.

Although virtual reality use following hysterectomy did not improve pain scores or decrease narcotic usage, it was well received by patients.