The use of virtual reality to relieve patient anxiety in MRI
Research type
Research Study
Full title
The use of virtual reality to relieve anxieties in paediatric and adult patients in MRI
IRAS ID
241102
Contact name
Jonathan Ashmore
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
NHS Highland
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 0 months, 31 days
Research summary
Research has shown that up to 14% of adults and 47% of children require some form of sedation to tolerate an MRI scan. This lack of compliance arises from the claustrophobic and noisy environment and the need to lay still for a long time. In this study we intend to use a virtual reality (VR) preparation resource which simulates the process of having an MRI scan to help prepare children and adult patients for their upcoming MRI.
The preparation resource will consist of 360' videos, photos and computer generated content which will guide the patient through the entire process of having an MRI including having their scan. Age appropriate versions will be created for the varying age groups.
The preparation resource will be available for free download via the standard app stores for iOS and Android mobile devices and Google cardboard VR headsets will be posted to the patients such that the resource can be used at home. Patients will undertake an anxiety questionnaire before and after the intervention, compliance will be recorded and the resultant images will be assessed for motion artefact.
Recruitment will include adult patients having a brain scan, children under 14 presenting for their first non-sedated MRI and children between 4 and 14 whom are booked for an MRI under general anaesthetic but whom it has been deemed appropriate to attempt an awake MRI.
REC name
West of Scotland REC 5
REC reference
19/WS/0092
Date of REC Opinion
18 Jul 2019
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion