Impact of Virtual Reality in Cardiac Electrophysiology

Acute Clinical Outcomes Following the Implementation of Virtual Reality (VR) in the Electrophysiology Laboratory

Pain during pacemaker or defibrillator implantation can increase patient discomfort, anxiety, and the need for deeper sedation. Using virtual reality (VR) as a non-pharmacological distraction tool may help reduce perceived pain, stabilize vital signs, and improve the overall patient experience. This prospective, single-center study evaluates whether adding VR to standard sedation lowers pain levels compared to sedation alone. Patients undergoing device implantation will be randomized to either group, with pain and vital signs monitored throughout the procedure. The study also explores patient satisfaction, adverse effects, and the potential of VR to support same-day discharge after minimally invasive procedures.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Age ≥ 18 years.
• Patients who are candidates for pacemaker (PM) or implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) implantation, including new devices such as leadless PM and subcutaneous ICD (S-ICD).
• Ability to provide written informed consent.
• Ability to understand the use of the VR headset and express a pain score using the NRS scale.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Severe cognitive, psychiatric or neurological disorders that impair understanding or collaboration in the study.
• Visual and/or auditory and inner ear disorders or severe vertigo that could be aggravated by VR.
• Allergies or known adverse reactions to standard sedative therapies provided for in the protocol (e.g. midazolam) if essential for the procedure.
• Inability to correctly position the VR headset (e.g. severe facial deformities, recent trauma to the craniofacial area).