Effect of Using Virtual Reality Headset on Children Perioperative Anxiety: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Abstract

Background: Perioperative anxiety can affect up to 75% of children, which is more harmful than it is for adults. One of the appealing methods for diverting children's attention from difficult situations is virtual reality technology. The purpose of this study is to determine how well a virtual reality headset reduces preoperative anxiety and other undesirable postoperative behaviors in children. Materials And Methods: Eighty children aged five to twelve, who were scheduled for elective day surgery were randomly divided into two groups, each with 40 children. The virtual reality group (VRG) and the non-virtual reality control group, but with parental presence (NVRG). The Visual Facial Analogue Scale (VFAS) was used to measure preoperative anxiety in the holding area and in the operation room during anesthesia induction. Emergency delirium, unfavorable behavioral development, and the parents’ satisfaction were also evaluated postoperatively. Results: The demographic and social parameters of children in both groups were comparable. Most children in VRG showed lower rates of moderate anxiety than NVRG (8% vs. 44%) at the holding area (P˂0.05). At the time of anesthesia induction, the NVRG developed the highest level of anxiety than VRG (8% vs. 0%). However, there were no significant intergroup differences in postoperative emergency delirium or the onset of new negative behavior (P=0.32). Conclusion: Children's participation during the induction of general anesthesia can be improved by using virtual reality distraction technology as a simple, non-invasive, and enjoyable alternative to parental presence.