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Distracting children with virtual reality during otomicroscopy: A randomised control trial
Ida Marie Galst1, Marie Høxbro Knudsen1, Thomas Hjuler1
1Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery and Audiology, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark.
International Journal of Pediatric Otorhinolaryngology
|August 9, 2024
Summary
Virtual Reality (VR) improved children's otomicroscopy experience but did not reduce pain scores. This study explored VR as a distraction technique during ear examinations in pediatric patients.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Otolaryngology
- Medical Technology Integration
- Pain Management in Children
Background:
- Virtual Reality (VR) is recognized for its effectiveness in mitigating procedure-related pain in pediatric patients.
- The application of VR as a distraction technique during otomicroscopy has not been previously investigated.
- Otomicroscopy, a common ear examination procedure, can cause discomfort in children.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of Virtual Reality (VR) as a distraction intervention during otomicroscopy in children.
- To compare the impact of VR distraction versus tablet distraction and no distraction on children's experience during otomicroscopy.
- To assess VR's effect on procedure-related pain perception in pediatric patients undergoing otomicroscopy.
Main Methods:
- A randomized controlled trial (RCT) was conducted with 60 children aged 4-15 years.
- Participants were allocated to one of three groups: VR distraction, tablet distraction, or no distraction.
- Procedure-related pain was assessed using patient self-reports and compared to historical data from previous examinations.
Main Results:
- Patient experience during otomicroscopy was significantly enhanced in the VR group compared to both the tablet group (p < 0.05) and the no distraction group (p < 0.01).
- No statistically significant differences in pain scores were observed among the three groups (VR, tablet, no distraction).
- The study found no significant adverse outcomes associated with the use of VR during the procedure.
Conclusions:
- Virtual Reality (VR) significantly improved pediatric patients' overall experience during otomicroscopy.
- While VR did not lead to a reduction in reported pain scores, it offered a valuable non-pharmacological intervention.
- VR presents a promising tool for enhancing patient comfort and cooperation during otological examinations in children, without significant risks.
