Virtual Reality During Pediatric Cast Removal

A Randomized Control Trial of Virtual Reality to Reduce Anxiety During Pediatric Cast Removal

This study is a randomized control trial of Virtual Reality during cast removal procedures at a pediatric tertiary care center.

Cast removal is a common outpatient procedure and is a source of pain and anxiety for children. Children are often frightened by the appearance and the noise of the saw. Additionally, the saw blade can become warm, and this can be uncomfortable. Multiple methods have been used and studied to try to make this experience easier for children. These methods include: soft music, therapeutic play, and headphones. Virtual reality (VR) devices are now increasingly affordable and portable. VR could be a way to distract children from the appearance and sound of the procedure. VR has been used in other clinical settings to help patients with the anxiety associated with medical procedures. The investigators propose a randomized trial to assess the responses (e.g. questionnaires and monitors) of children to cast removal with VR versus the standard noise reduction headphones.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Sustained a fracture in their arm/leg
• No previous experience with a cast removal
• Must have at least one wrist free of immobilization (for heart rate monitor)
• Parents and patient are English speaking

Exclusion Criteria:

• Patients with a history of epilepsy, ventricular shunt, motion sickness
• Patients with any history of cognitive, visual or hearing impairment