Utilization of Different Virtual Reality Experiences

Impact of Different Virtual Reality Experiences on Anxiety and Pain

This trial studies differences between a mindfulness and a gaming virtual reality (VR) experience as a means for preoperative anxiety management and postoperative pain management among patients after head and neck surgery. Investigators will assess differences in anxiety scores, pain scores, physiologic measures, and subjective patient experiences.

Optimal postoperative pain control after head and neck surgery is vital for recovery, and non-pharmacologic strategies to improve pain may help reduce narcotic use. Further, preoperative anxiety is common and can impact postoperative pain, analgesic requirements, and recovery. In addition to facilitating with postoperative pain control, VR may have a role in reducing preoperative anxiety. However, it is unclear whether different VR experiences may be more beneficial for different clinical applications.

This study will evaluate if there are differences in preoperative anxiety and postoperative pain when utilizing different VR experiences. Patients undergoing head and neck surgery will be randomly allocated preoperatively to first participate in either a mindfulness or active gaming VR experience, and then postoperatively will crossover and participate in the other experience they did not utilize prior to surgery.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Patients undergoing head and neck surgery
• Are able to provide informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

• Isolation precautions
• Active eye discharge
• Active nausea or vomiting
• History of seizure, epilepsy, or hypersensitivity to flashing light
• Expected to have wounds or wound care that prevent comfortable and safe use of the VR headset