Digital Intervention Postoperative Protocol

A Digital Intervention Protocol to Enhance Recovery After Head and Neck Surgery

Postoperative recovery after head and neck surgery is complex, and often requires utilization of narcotic medications. The aim of this study is to evaluate reduction in pain and use of opioid medications through Virtual Reality (VR) and Fitbit wearable activity devices.

Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocols were introduced as a method to optimize perioperative patient care. Narcotic medications are frequently utilized in postoperative care, but these have risks including sedation or dependence. Non-pharmacologic measures for postoperative pain control may help limit the need for opioids in postoperative pain control.

Early mobilization is also important after surgery, however postoperative mobility is rarely monitored and relies on subjective reports.

The investigators will seek to examine the implementation of an ERAS protocol using VR and Fitbit wearable activity devices on postoperative recovery after head and neck surgery. This is a prospective, 4-arm, randomized controlled trial.

Inclusion Criteria:

• English speaking
• 18 to 89 years of age.
• Planned to undergo major head and neck surgery OHSU with an expected length of stay of two days or more.
• Ability to understand goals of the study and willingness to sign a written informed consent document.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Planned postoperative admission to the intensive care unit (ICU).
• Social or psychiatric conditions that may interfere with compliance.
• Isolation precautions.
• Reconstruction, incisions, wounds, wound care, or injury that impact the ability to place on the VR headset or wear a Fitbit device around the wrist.
• History of seizure or epilepsy.
• History of vertigo or persistent dizziness.
• Limitations that impair mobility.
• Use of a walker or wheelchair at baseline.