The influence of the perioperative use of virtual reality on anxiolysis in adult patients

Background Surgery causes anxiety in many patients. The extent of patients' preoperative anxiety can influence the pain they experience postoperatively. This research project investigates the extent to which virtual reality glasses (VR) can lead to a reduction in anxiety in patients.

Methods The VR glasses were used during operations under local anaesthesia in the ENT area (n=30). Different VR programs were available. Before and after surgery, the influence of VR glasses on intraoperative anxiety was assessed using the State-Trait-Anxiety-Inventory (STAI).

Results The use of VR glasses leads to a significant reduction in intraoperative anxiety in patients. The anxiety scores measured by means of the STAI have decreased in almost all patients. However, isolated patients also reported higher postoperative tension. No technical complications occurred intraoperatively. The majority of patients would like to have VR glasses again for their next operation and would also recommend the use of VR glasses to other patients.

Conclusions In addition to a trusting doctor-patient relationship and the use of sufficient local anaesthesia, the use of VR glasses can further reduce the patient's intraoperative anxiety.

Publication History

Article published online:
24 May 2022