Could VR headsets replace sedation for Kids' kidney biopsies?
NCT ID NCT05267704
First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This study tested whether using a virtual reality (VR) headset during a kidney biopsy could help children feel less pain and anxiety, possibly reducing the need for sedation. Thirty-two children aged 5 to 17 used a VR headset showing a game during the procedure. The main goal was to see if patients and parents would recommend VR to others, and to measure changes in anxiety. The study was small and did not compare VR to standard care, so more research is needed.
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 (Oculus Go)
What this could lead to
If it works, this could offer a non-drug way to ease pain and anxiety for children during medical procedures.
What could go wrong
This was a small, early feasibility study with only 32 participants. It did not compare VR directly to standard sedation, so results may not apply broadly.
Disclaimer
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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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UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital
San Francisco, California, 94143, United States