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Preoperative Virtual Reality to Expose Patients With Breast Cancer to the Operating Room Environment: Feasibility and
Jordana L Sommer1,2, Kristin Reynolds2,3, Pamela Hebbard4,5
1Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada.
JMIR Formative Research
|January 17, 2024
Summary
This pilot study shows virtual reality (VR) is a feasible tool to reduce preoperative distress and anxiety in breast cancer patients. Patients found the VR simulation realistic, helpful, and calming, informing future large-scale trials.
Area of Science:
- Surgical Oncology
- Medical Technology
- Psychological Interventions
Background:
- Preoperative distress and anxiety are common in cancer surgery patients.
- Existing interventions show inconsistent efficacy and feasibility.
- There is a need for effective preoperative anxiety mitigation strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the feasibility and utility of a novel virtual reality (VR) intervention.
- To expose breast cancer surgery patients to a simulated operating room and anesthetic induction.
- To evaluate patient-reported outcomes and feedback on the VR intervention.
Main Methods:
- A pilot study with 7 breast cancer surgery patients.
- Random assignment to VR intervention or standard care.
- Preoperative and postoperative self-report measures of distress and anxiety.
- Qualitative and quantitative feedback from intervention group participants.
Main Results:
- The VR intervention was rated favorably by participants (95% agreement).
- Participants found the simulation realistic, helpful, and calming.
- The intervention positively impacted preparedness and surgical expectations.
- Recruitment was slow but all participants completed the study.
Conclusions:
- The preoperative VR intervention is preliminarily feasible for breast cancer surgery patients.
- Participant feedback suggests the intervention is beneficial and realistic.
- Findings will guide modifications for a larger randomized controlled trial to assess efficacy.
