Virtual Reality for Post-operative Pain Management

A Randomized Controlled Trial of Virtual Reality for Pain Management in the Post-Operative Period Following Orthopedic Surgery

Use an RCT study design to measure pain experience, medication use, medical side effects, and length of hospital stay with and without availability of VR following spine fusion surgery

The purpose of this study is to prospectively assess the utility of virtual reality (VR) for pain and anxiety management in the post-operative period following major orthopedic surgery. While there is substantial evidence supporting the use of VR during dressing changes for burn victims, there is little known about VR use in post-surgical settings. In the proposed study, patients will be randomized to either receive VR in addition to standard of care or to receive only standard of care during their post-operative care following spinal fusion surgery for idiopathic scoliosis or neuromuscular scoliosis.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Patient is having a spinal fusion at Gillette Children's Specialty Healthcare
• Patient with a diagnosis of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) or a diagnosis of neuromuscular scoliosis

Exclusion Criteria:

• Non-English speaking parents/patients
• Patients with history of motion sickness
• Patients with epilepsy
• Patients with a ventricular shunt
• Patients with severe/profound cognitive impairments