Virtual reality headsets calm nerves before surgery, study finds

NCT ID NCT06877663

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 26, 2026

Summary

This study tested whether using a VR headset to watch relaxing videos before surgery can lower anxiety and pain. 233 adults scheduled for elective surgery either used the VR headset or received standard care. Researchers measured anxiety levels and pain scores to see if the VR experience made 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 Device (Meta Quest 2 headsets showing entertainment videos)

What this could lead to

If it works, this could give hospitals a simple, drug-free way to help patients feel calmer before surgery.

What could go wrong

This is a single completed study with 233 participants. The effect may be small or not apply to all types of surgery or patients.

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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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

anxiety anxiety disorder Pain, Postoperative

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli

    Caserta, CE, 81100, Italy