Can virtual reality ease Kids' pain after surgery?

NCT ID NCT04943874

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 26, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tested whether a biofeedback-based virtual reality (VR) program could help children and teens aged 12-18 manage pain after surgery. 93 participants used the VR tool before and after their operation. The goal was to see if the approach was feasible and acceptable, not yet to prove it works.

What this could mean

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

Active substance

biofeedback-based virtual reality device

What this could lead to

If successful, this could provide a non-drug option to help children manage pain after surgery.

What could go wrong

This was a small feasibility study (93 participants) with no control group, so results may not apply broadly. The technology may not reduce pain for everyone.

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.

Acute Pain Pain Pain, Postoperative

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Nemours Children's Hospital

    Wilmington, Delaware, 19803, United States