Virtual reality in post-operative robotic colorectal procedures: An innovation study

Background and objective: Three-dimensional immersive virtual reality (VR) provides the user with multiple sensory experiences involving both visual and auditory pathways. While VR-based applications have reduced procedure-associated pain in pediatric populations, there is little to no research to support the use of VR in adults. The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of immersive VR for reducing pain in adult patients and to evaluate responses to the use of this technology during hospitalizations of two to four days.Methods: This was a prospective, self-controlled pilot intervention study of the feasibility of the use of immersive VR in ten patients ages 55-68 who had undergone robotic colorectal surgery.Results: Pain scores were positively correlated with the length of hospital stay. The use of immersive VR was also positively correlated with measures of distraction and entertainment.Conclusions: The results of this feasibility study support the use of VR for pain management in middle-aged to early-older adults.