3-Dimensional Virtual Reality Versus 2-Dimensional Video for Distraction during the Induction of Anesthesia in Children to Reduce Anxiety: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Preoperative anxiety is common in children. It can contribute to negative experiences with anesthetic induction and may cause adverse physiological and psychological effects. Virtual reality (VR) and electronic tablet devices are 2 audiovisual distraction tools that may help to reduce anxiety and enhance the preoperative experience. This study aimed to compare the use of an immersive 3-dimensional (3D) VR to 2-dimensional (2D) video on anxiety in children during induction of general anesthesia.

Citation:
Samnakay S, Von Ungern-Sternberg BS, Evans D, Sommerfield AC, Hauser ND, Bell E, Khan RN, Sommerfield DL. 3-Dimensional Virtual Reality Versus 2-Dimensional Video for Distraction during the Induction of Anesthesia in Children to Reduce Anxiety: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Anesth Analg. 2024.

Keywords:
Preoperative anxiety; virtual reality; general anesthetia; electronic tablet devices

Abstract:
Preoperative anxiety is common in children. It can contribute to negative experiences with anesthetic induction and may cause adverse physiological and psychological effects. Virtual reality (VR) and electronic tablet devices are 2 audiovisual distraction tools that may help to reduce anxiety and enhance the preoperative experience. This study aimed to compare the use of an immersive 3-dimensional (3D) VR to 2-dimensional (2D) video on anxiety in children during induction of general anesthesia.