Could virtual reality help kids heal after heart surgery?

NCT ID NCT06712368

First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tested whether using virtual reality glasses during physical therapy can reduce pain, improve blood oxygen levels, and help children walk farther after open heart surgery. Forty children aged 6 to 12 took part. One group used VR glasses during their cardiac rehab exercises, while the other group did the same exercises without VR. Researchers measured pain, blood gases, and walking ability to see if VR 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 glasses

What this could lead to

If it works, this could offer a drug-free way to ease pain and speed recovery for children after heart surgery.

What could go wrong

This is a small, completed study with only 40 children, so results may not apply to all kids. Virtual reality may not work for everyone and could cause dizziness or discomfort.

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.

congenital heart disease

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • National heart institute

    Cairo, Egypt