Star projector may replace sedative for Kids' surgery anxiety

NCT ID NCT06144177

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study tests whether a dark operating room with a star projector on the ceiling can reduce anxiety in children ages 2 to 6 having outpatient surgery. Some children will get this calming environment plus a parent present, others will receive standard anxiety medicine (midazolam) with a parent, and a third group will have only a parent present. Researchers will measure how well each child accepts the anesthesia mask and their anxiety levels before and during the procedure.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

dark room with star projector

What this could lead to

If effective, this could offer a simple, drug-free way to reduce fear and improve cooperation in young children before surgery.

What could go wrong

This is a small, early-phase trial, and the star projector may not work as well as standard anxiety medication. Results may not apply to children with prior surgery or fear of the dark.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Contacts and locations

Study contacts

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

Locations

  • Medical University of South Carolina

    RECRUITING

    Charleston, South Carolina, 29425, United States

    Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••