Project description:AimsEvaluation of (i) the effects of a virtual reality (VR) preprocedural patient education video on information provision, procedure-related knowledge, satisfaction, and the level of worries in patients planned for atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation and (ii) the feasibility of a disposable cardboard VR viewer for home use in this setting.Methods and resultsIn this prospective observational cohort study, patients were alternatively assigned in a 1:1 ratio to the control or VR group. Controls received standard preprocedural information. VR group received standard information and a VR video (via in-hospital VR headset and disposable cardboard). The Amsterdam Preoperative Anxiety and Information Scale (APAIS) together with additional questions concerning procedural experience and satisfaction was completed pre- and post-ablation. Of 134 patients [38.1% female, aged 66 (58-72) years] included, 49.2% were assigned to the control and 50.7% to the VR group. The number of patients that worried about the ablation procedure was lower in VR than in control patients (19.1% vs. 40.9%, P = 0.006). More VR females than males had worries about the procedure (34.8% vs. 11.1%, P = 0.026). The number of VR patients that were satisfied with the preprocedural information provision was higher post-ablation than pre-ablation (83.3% vs. 60.4%, P = 0.007). In total, 59.4% reported that the disposable cardboard was easy to use and led to a discussion with relatives in 68.8%.ConclusionIn patients scheduled for AF ablation, a VR preprocedural educational video led to better information provision and procedure-related knowledge, higher satisfaction, and less worries regarding the procedure. The disposable cardboard was feasible for home use.
Project description:Background/Objectives: Preoperative anxiety in cardiac surgery patients can adversely affect mental well-being and postoperative outcomes. Virtual reality (VR) patient education has been proposed as a novel method to enhance patient education and potentially reduce preoperative anxiety. The VR Patient Journey Trial aimed to evaluate the impact of VR patient education on preoperative anxiety and patient satisfaction compared to traditional education methods. Methods: This randomized controlled trial included 121 patients undergoing cardiac surgery. Participants were randomized to receive either VR patient education (intervention group) or traditional education (control group). Preoperative anxiety was measured using the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) and the Amsterdam Preoperative Anxiety and Information scale (APAIS). Patient satisfaction was assessed postoperatively through a custom questionnaire. Statistical analyses included linear regression and non-parametric testing. Results: Neither STAI nor APAIS scores showed differences in preoperative anxiety between both groups. However, the intervention group reported significantly higher patient satisfaction with the information provided (median score 9 vs. 8; p < 0.001). Furthermore, women reported higher levels of anxiety than men (p = 0.01), and open-ended feedback from participants indicated a need for more detailed information on postoperative rehabilitation and potential risks. Conclusions: The VR Patient Journey Trial revealed that, although VR patient education did not significantly reduce preoperative anxiety levels, it significantly improved patient satisfaction with the information provided. These results suggest that VR patient education can be a valuable addition to preoperative patient programs.
Project description:Background:Minimally invasive spine surgery (MISS) and endoscopic spine surgery have continually evolving indications in the cervical, thoracic, and lumbar spine. Endoscopic spine surgery entails treatment of disc disease, stenosis, spondylolisthesis, radiculopathy, and deformity. MISS involves complex motor skills in regions of variable anatomy. Simulator use has been proposed to aid in training and skill retention, preoperative planning, and intraoperative use. Methods:A systematic review of five databases was performed for publications pertaining to the use of virtual (VR), augmented (AR), and mixed (MR) reality in MISS and spinal endoscopic surgery. Qualitative data analysis was undertaken with focus of study design, quality, and reported outcomes. Study quality was assessed using the Medical Education Research Quality Instrument (MERSQI) score and level of evidence (LoE) by a modified Oxford Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine (OCEBM) level for simulation in medicine. Results:Thirty-eight studies were retained for data collection. Studies were of intervention-control, clinical application, and pilot or cross-sectional design. Identified articles illustrated use of VR, AR, and MR in all study designs. Procedures included pedicle cannulation and screw insertion, vertebroplasty, kyphoplasty, percutaneous transforaminal endoscopic discectomy (PTED), lumbar puncture and facet injection, transvertebral anterior cervical foraminotomy (TVACF) and posterior cervical laminoforaminotomy. Overall MERSQI score was low-to-medium [M =9.71 (SD =2.60); range, 4.5-13.5], and LoE was predominantly low given the number of purely descriptive articles, or low-quality randomized studies. Conclusions:The current scope of VR, AR, and MR surgical simulators in MISS and spinal endoscopic surgery was described. Studies demonstrate improvement in technical skill and patient outcomes in short term follow-up. Despite this, overall study quality and levels of evidence remain low. Cohesive study design and reporting with focus on transfer validity in training scenarios, and patient derived outcome measures in clinical studies are required to further advance the field.
Project description:Presurgical anxiety is very common and is often treated with sedatives. Minimizing or avoiding sedation reduces the risk of sedation-related adverse events. Reducing sedation can increase early cognitive recovery and reduce time to discharge after surgery. The current case study is the first to explore the use of interactive eye-tracked VR as a nonpharmacologic anxiolytic customized for physically immobilized presurgery patients. Method: A 44-year-old female patient presenting for gallbladder surgery participated. Using a within-subject repeated measures design (treatment order randomized), the participant received no VR during one portion of her preoperative wait and interactive eye-tracked virtual reality during an equivalent portion of time in the presurgery room. After each condition (no VR vs. VR), the participant provided subjective 0-10 ratings and state-trait short form Y anxiety measures of the amount of anxiety and fear she experienced during that condition. Results: As predicted, compared to treatment as usual (no VR), the patient reported having 67% lower presurgical anxiety during VR. She also experienced "strong fear" (8 out of 10) during no VR vs. "no fear" (0 out of 10) during VR. She reported a strong sense of presence during VR and zero nausea. She liked VR, she had fun during VR, and she recommended VR to future patients during pre-op. Interactive VR distraction with eye tracking was an effective nonpharmacologic technique for reducing anticipatory fear and anxiety prior to surgery. The results add to existing evidence that supports the use of VR in perioperative settings. VR technology has recently become affordable and more user friendly, increasing the potential for widespread dissemination into medical practice. Although case studies are scientifically inconclusive by nature, they help identify new directions for future larger, carefully controlled studies. VR sedation is a promising non-drug fear and anxiety management technique meriting further investigation.
Project description:BACKGROUND:Standards for good practice in clinical risk management issued by the Clinical Negligence Scheme for Trusts indicate that "appropriate information is provided to patients on the risks and benefits of proposed treatment, and of the alternatives available before a signature on a consent form is sought". AIMS:To investigate the practicability and patient acceptability of a postal information and consent booklet for patients undergoing outpatient gastroscopy. METHODS:Information about gastroscopy procedure, personalised appointment details, and a carbonised consent form were compiled into a single booklet. This was mailed to patients well in advance of their endoscopic procedure. Patient satisfaction for this new process was assessed by questionnaire. RESULTS:275 patients received a patient information booklet. Of these, 150 (54.5%) returned the consent form by post when they confirmed their attendance; 141 (94%) had signed the form, and the other nine requested further information. Of the remaining 125 booklets sent out, 115 (92%) forms were brought back on the day of the investigation having been previously signed. The remaining 10 (8%) required further information before signing the form. An audit of 168 patients was used to test reaction to the booklet and the idea of filling in the form before coming to hospital; 155 patients (92. 2%) reported the information given in the booklet to be "very useful", and all reported it to be "clear and understandable". CONCLUSION:A specifically designed patient information booklet with integral consent form is accepted by patients, and improves the level of understanding prior to the investigation being carried out.
Project description:BackgroundThe emotional strains associated with impending cesarean sections pose significant challenges for primigravida women, potentially exacerbating anxiety levels and impacting overall well-being. Virtual reality (VR) technology has emerged as a nonpharmacological method for reducing preoperative anxiety.ObjectivesThis study aims to investigate the effectiveness of VR in reducing preoperative anxiety in primigravida women undergoing cesarean sections.DesignThis is a quasi-experimental study involving 38 first-time pregnant participants undergoing cesarean surgery.MethodIn this study, 38 first-time pregnant women undergoing cesarean surgery were divided into two groups: an intervention group (n = 19) and a control group (n = 19). The intervention group watched a VR video depicting various aspects of cesarean delivery, while the control group received no intervention and was instructed to consult their doctors or medical centers for information. Anxiety levels were assessed using the APAIS questionnaire before and after the intervention. Data analysis was performed using SPSS 25, including statistical tests like chi-square, Mann-Whitney, Wilcoxon, and logistic regression.ResultsThe intervention group experienced a significant reduction on average anxiety scores (11.63 ± 4.16) compared to the control group (14.78 ± 3.18) following the intervention. Within the intervention group, there was a statistically significant decrease in anxiety levels before and after the intervention (p < 0.05), indicating that the VR video intervention effectively reduced preoperative anxiety in pregnant women. Furthermore, there was a significant difference in anxiety levels between the control and intervention groups after the intervention (p = 0.02), whereas such a difference was not observed before the intervention (p = 0.21).ConclusionThis study demonstrates that VR technology is an effective and nonpharmacological method for reducing preoperative anxiety in primigravida women undergoing cesarean sections. The findings highlight the potential of VR interventions to improve patient well-being, offering an accessible, cost-effective solution for anxiety management in healthcare settings. These results underscore the transformative role of VR in enhancing the preoperative experience and supporting positive surgical outcomes.
Project description:BackgroundHypertension challenges arise in part from poor adherence due to inadequate patient education. VR offers immersive learning to improve hypertension knowledge.ObjectiveTo compare VR education with traditional verbal education to improve hypertension knowledge.MethodsIn this randomised trial, 182 patients with hypertension were assigned to receive either traditional physician-led education (n = 88) or VR education (n = 94) with equivalent content. The VR group experienced a 3D video using Oculus Quest 2 headsets. Knowledge was assessed post-intervention using a 29-item questionnaire. The primary outcome was the objective score. Subjective satisfaction and responder characteristics were secondary outcomes.ResultsMedian objective scores were significantly higher for VR (14, IQR 3) versus traditional education (10, IQR 5), p < 0.001, indicating superior hypertension knowledge acquisition with VR. Subjective satisfaction was high in both groups. Participants were categorized into low (first quartile) and medium-high (second to fourth quartiles) responders based on their scores. Low responders had a significantly higher prevalence of older women than medium-high responders (57% vs. 40% female, p = 0.024; 68 vs. 65 years), p = 0.036).ConclusionsVR outperforms traditional education. Tailoring to groups such as older women can optimise learning.
Project description:Three-dimensional (3D) modeling of the liver can be especially useful for both the surgeon and patient to understand the actual location of the tumor and planning the resection plane. Virtual reality (VR) can enhance the understanding of 3D structures and create an environment where the user can focus on contents provided. In the present study, a VR platform was developed using Unreal Engine 4 software (Epic Games, Potomac, MD, USA). Patient's liver based on magnetic resonance image was imported as a 3D model that could distinguish liver parenchyma, vascular structure, and cancer. Preoperative education videos for patients were developed. They could be viewed inside the VR platform. To evaluate the usefulness of VR education program for patients undergoing liver resection for hepatocellular carcinoma, a randomized clinical trial evaluating the knowledge and anxiety of the patient was designed. The case presented in this report was the first experience of performing the VR education program and examining the knowledge and anxiety using questionnaires. When the knowledge score increased, the anxiety score also increased after the education program. Based on findings of this pilot case study, the timing and place where the questionnaire will be answered can be modified for formal initiation of the randomized controlled study to examine the usefulness of VR in patient education.
Project description:Background and aimsSevere discomfort during an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy (UGE) is often a stressful experience for patients undergoing the procedure. An increasing number of studies have shown that acupuncture may reduce discomfort during UGE. A systematic review in 2004 investigated the effect of acupuncture for gastrointestinal endoscopy, but these data have not been recently reviewed. Therefore, this study was conducted to evaluate the current evidence and provide up-to-date knowledge for clinical decision-making.MethodsNine databases were searched from inception to June 2021. Eligible randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were included. The outcome data were synthesized where necessary, and risks of bias of included studies were assessed using RevMan V.5.3.ResultsTwenty-three eligible RCTs with 3,349 patients were identified. It was found that acupuncture plus topical pharyngeal anesthesia with lidocaine hydrochloride (TPALH) resulted in greater improvements regarding visual analog scale (VAS) scores and the incidence of nausea and vomiting (INV) when compared with TPALH alone. These results were consistent among studies of manual acupuncture, electroacupuncture, auricular-plaster, superficial needle (SFN) and acupressure. In the meta-analysis, SFN plus TPALH showed significant improvement of VAS scores compared to sham SFN plus TPALH (MD -1.11, 95% CI -1.52 to -0.70, P < 0.00001). Most of included studies did not report any side effects in their findings, and were of medium-to-high risk of bias.ConclusionAcupuncture, as adjunctive therapy to TPA, may result in less patient discomfort than TPA alone. Findings from this review should be interpreted with caution due to the high heterogeneity identified. There is low-quality evidence supporting the use of acupuncture over sham. More rigorously designed RCTs are needed to inform clinical decision-making.Systematic review registrationPROSPERO [CRD42014008966].
Project description:Several studies have examined the effect of virtual reality (VR) education. However, they are mostly systematic reviews or meta-analyses focusing on doctors and residents; they fail to consider VR medical education for a broader range of learners. We evaluated the effectiveness of VR education for health professionals and identified the essential features of education. Randomized controlled trials published from January 2000 to April 2020 were identified from PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, and the Cochrane Library (n = 299). The randomized studies' bias risk was evaluated using Cochrane's Risk of Bias tool. Meta- and subgroup-analyses were conducted using Review Manager 5.4.1. The overall effect was measured using Hedges' g and determined using Z-statistics (p < 0.05). Heterogeneity was assessed using X2 and I2 statistics. Among the identified records, 25 studies were selected through systematic review, and 18 studies were included in the meta-analysis. We identified a significant improvement in the VR group's skill and satisfaction levels, and that less immersive VR was more efficacious for knowledge outcomes than fully immersive VR. Maximizing the advantages of VR will increase learning opportunities and complement the limited clinical experience, thus improving medical services. A systematic and efficient VR medical education program will greatly enhance learners' core competencies.