Can a VR headset replace some sedatives during surgery?
NCT ID NCT03744845
First seen Aug 10, 2026 · Last updated Aug 11, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This trial asks whether wearing a virtual reality (VR) headset before and during short hand surgeries can help reduce pain and anxiety. Adults undergoing elective hand surgery with local anesthesia and sedation will use the VR headset as a distraction. Researchers will measure self-reported pain and anxiety scores, vital signs, and the amounts of sedative and pain medications used. The goal is to see if VR can improve patient comfort and potentially reduce the need for drugs.
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 distraction using an Oculus Go headset
- What this could lead to
- If effective, VR could offer a drug-free way to ease pain and anxiety during minor surgeries, potentially reducing the need for sedatives and painkillers.
- What could go wrong
- This is a small early-stage trial, and results may not apply to all patients or procedures. VR may not work for everyone, and some people might find it uncomfortable or disorienting.
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 PERIOPERATIVE ANXIETY are added.
By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use
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
-
UCSF Orthopedic Institute
San Francisco, California, 94158, United States
More trials for these conditions
Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.
- Drug combo may cut opioid use after lung surgery
- Ear-Zap device may calm surgery nerves without pills
- New nerve block could replace sedation for shoulder dislocation
- Fidget toys tested as anxiety relief for kids facing surgery
- Which Pre-Surgery drug calms nerves and eases pain best?
- Your own playlist might calm nerves before surgery, study says