Impact of Virtual Reality Hypnosis Before an Invasive Medical Procedure for Patients With Chronic Pain

Virtual Reality Hypnosis Prior to Radiofrequency Thermocoagulation for Patients With Chronic Pain: A Prospective Quasi-Randomized Controlled Trial

Management of chronic pain involves an array of tools, such as radiofrequency thermocoagulation (Rf-Tc). Like many other invasive procedures, Rf-Tc can generate an increase in pain perception and anxiety levels. Virtual reality hypnosis (VRH) is a promising tool in managing anxiety and pain. Nevertheless, its effectiveness has not been investigated in patients with chronic pain goig througha Rf-Tc procedure. The goal of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of VRH on self-assessed anxiety in patients with chronic pain having to undergo an act of Tf-Rc. Patients were randomly assigned into two groups: VRH or Control (usual care). Assessment were carried-out at 4 periods of time: T0 (the week before the Rf-Tc); T1 (pre-intervention the day of the Rf-Tc); T2 (post-intervention the day of the Rf-Tc); and T3 (post-Rf-Tc). Medical and socio-demographic data, immersive tendencies pain, anxiety, and satisfaction were assessed at each time points.

Inclusion Criteria:

• suffering from chronic pain
• >18 years old
• French speaking
• no claustrophobia
• no head or face wounds
• sufficient auditory and visual acuity for an effective use of the VRH technique