Effectiveness of virtual reality technology in gynecological surgeries

Introduction. Despite minimally invasive nature, hysteroscopic resection is associated with anxiety and pain. Pharmacological agents pose the risk of adverse effects that highlights the relevance of non-pharmacological approaches to reducing perioperative stress. Objective. To evaluate the effect of virtual reality (VR) technology on anxiety and pain perception in patients undergoing hysteroscopic resection. Material and methods. A prospective randomized controlled trial included 62 patients (ASA grade I—II) who underwent hysteroscopic resection under spinal anesthesia. Patients were allocated to the control group (n=33) and the VR group (n=29). Anxiety was assessed using the STAI-8 scale. We also analyzed pain intensity, perioperative systolic and diastolic blood pressure, as well as heart rate. Patient satisfaction with anesthesia was evaluated. Results. The VR group demonstrated significantly lower systolic and diastolic blood pressure and heart rate (p<0.01), as well as lower pain intensity (p<0.05) at the most traumatic stage of the procedure. Six hours postoperatively, anxiety was significantly lower in the VR group (24.1±2.96 vs 35.4±4.1; p<0.05). Patient satisfaction with anesthesia was higher in the VR group (p=0.033). Conclusion. VR technology in hysteroscopic resection reduces anxiety, pain perception, and severity of hemodynamic response to surgical stress. This approach also improves patient satisfaction with anesthetic management.