Tablet VR game calms kids before surgery – no needles needed
NCT ID NCT02687243
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.
Disclaimer
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the original study
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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.
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.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
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Locations
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McMaster Children's Hospital
Hamilton, Ontario, L8S 4K1, Canada