VR goggles calm nerves during heart surgery, study finds
NCT ID NCT07250282
First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This study tested whether wearing a virtual reality headset during heart device implantation (like pacemakers) could reduce patients' anxiety and pain. 111 adults were randomly assigned to use VR or standard care. The goal was to see if distraction through VR lowers stress and discomfort 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
- Virtual reality headset
- What this could lead to
- If it works, this could offer a simple, drug-free way to help patients feel calmer and less pain during heart device surgery.
- What could go wrong
- This is a small, completed study with 111 people. The effect may not be strong or apply to all patients. VR headsets can cause dizziness or discomfort in some.
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.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Locations
-
West german heart and vascular center, University hospital Essen,
Essen, North Rhine-Westphalia, 45147, Germany
More trials for these conditions
Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.
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- Can a virtual meadow or a Mind's eye stream calm hospital anxiety?
- Virtual reality may distract patients from pain and fear during anesthesia
- Can a VR headset calm nerves before surgery?
- Could continuing a common heart drug before surgery save lives?