Tablet VR game calms kids before surgery – no needles needed

NCT ID NCT02687243

Completed Symptom relief Sponsor: McMaster University Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

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

Summary

This study tested a virtual reality app called StoryTelling Medicine (STM) to see if it could reduce anxiety in children aged 8–13 before elective surgery. The app guides kids through hospital settings in a fun, interactive way. Researchers measured anxiety, heart rate, and stress hormone levels, and also looked at recovery outcomes like painkiller use and hospital stay length. If it works, STM could offer a simple, low-cost way to improve kids' surgical experiences.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: Interactive virtual reality application (StoryTelling Medicine) delivered via tablet
What this could lead to: If effective, this could give hospitals a simple, low-cost tool to help children feel calmer before surgery, potentially reducing complications and speeding recovery.
What could go wrong: This is a small, completed study (118 children) testing a single app. Results may not apply to all hospitals or age groups, and the app may not work for every child.

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

Get updates

Get notified about this study

Sign up to get updates when this study changes or when new studies for ANXIETY are added.

Our safety recommendation!

By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use

Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

anxiety anxiety disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

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

ANXIETY

Contacts and locations

Locations

McMaster Children's Hospital

Hamilton, Ontario, L8S 4K1, Canada

More trials for these conditions

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