Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 5, 2026
11:29
Real-time Video Projection in an MRI for Characterization of Neural Correlates Associated with Mirror Therapy for Phantom Limb Pain
Published on: April 20, 2019
Virtual reality for pain management during extracorporeal lithotripsy: A randomized pilot study
Roxann Thériault1, Marie Philippe Harvey2,3, Carmen-Édith Belleï-Rodriguez2,3,4
1Department of Urology, Sherbrooke University Hospital Center, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada.
Summary
Virtual reality (VR) significantly reduced pain during extracorporeal shockwave lithotripsy (SWL). However, VR did not lower anxiety or opioid use in this pilot study, suggesting further research is needed.
Area of Science:
- Pain Management
- Virtual Reality Applications
- Urology
Background:
- Virtual reality (VR) offers immersive experiences that may reduce pain and improve tolerance during extracorporeal shockwave lithotripsy (SWL).
- This study investigates the feasibility and preliminary effects of VR on pain, anxiety, and opioid consumption during SWL.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the feasibility of using VR before SWL.
- To explore the impact of pre-procedural VR on pain, anxiety, and opioid use during SWL.
Main Methods:
- A randomized pilot trial involving 30 patients undergoing their first SWL for kidney stones.
- Patients were randomized to receive a 20-minute VR session or quiet rest before SWL.
- Pain, anxiety (State-Trait Anxiety Inventory), and fentanyl consumption were measured.
Main Results:
- SWL pain intensity was significantly lower in the VR group (3.8/10) compared to the control group (5.9/10) (p=0.043).
- No significant differences were observed in anxiety scores or opioid consumption between the groups.
- The study experienced low eligibility (25.8%) and recruitment (43%) rates, with limitations including small sample size and selection bias.
Conclusions:
- VR shows promise in reducing SWL-induced pain, but further research with larger sample sizes is necessary.
- Low recruitment rates may pose a challenge for future adequately powered randomized controlled trials focused on first-time SWL patients.
- VR did not demonstrate a significant effect on reducing anxiety or opioid consumption in this pilot study.
