Virtual reality may distract patients from pain and fear during anesthesia

NCT ID NCT04163809

Not yet recruiting Symptom relief Sponsor: Cedars-Sinai Medical Center Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Aug 14, 2026 · Last updated Aug 14, 2026

Summary

This trial tests whether using a virtual reality headset during regional anesthesia can lower patients' anxiety and pain. Adults aged 18 to 64 having elective surgery with regional anesthesia will either receive VR distraction or standard care. Researchers will measure anxiety and pain levels before and during the procedure to see if VR makes a difference.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: Virtual reality distraction using an Oculus Go headset during regional anesthesia
What this could lead to: If effective, VR could become a simple, drug-free way to ease anxiety and pain during regional anesthesia procedures.
What could go wrong: This is a small, early-stage trial, and results may not apply to all patients. VR may not work for everyone, and some people might find the headset uncomfortable.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

anxiety anxiety disorder Pain

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

ANXIETY PAIN

Contacts and locations

Locations

Cedars Sinai Medical Center

Los Angeles, California, 90048, United States

More trials for these conditions

Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.