The Effect of a VIrtual RealiTy Immersive Experience Upon Anxiety Levels, Procedural Understanding, and Satisfaction in Patients Undergoing CArdiac CaTHeterization: The VIRTUAL CATH Trial.

OBJECTIVES In patients undergoing elective cardiac catheterization, we aimed to evaluate the use of an immersive virtual reality (VR) experience on periprocedural anxiety, procedural knowledge, and overall satisfaction, compared with using generic video-based material. BACKGROUND Cardiac catheterization is a commonly performed invasive investigation for patients with cardiovascular disease. Patients are understandably anxious, which can lead to negative psychological and physiological outcomes. It is known that informing patients adequately prior to their procedure improves the patient experience. Video-based material is used frequently in this setting with proven benefits. With the advancement of healthcare resources, the informed consent and explanation process could be further enhanced using VR technology. METHODS A randomized, controlled trial was conducted at a single tertiary center. Patients attending the preassessment clinic for elective cardiac catheterization were randomized to receive either standard care, or standard care + VR. Anxiety levels, procedural knowledge, and satisfaction were assessed before and after each procedure. RESULTS Sixty-four patients completed the trial (33 in the VR arm and 31 in the control arm). The VR group had a significantly greater reduction in anxiety level from baseline to post procedure than the control group (-5.1 vs -4.0, respectively; P=.03). In addition, the VR group had a better procedural understanding (3.88 vs 3.23, respectively; P<.01) and higher overall satisfaction than the control group (9.35 vs 8.97, respectively; P=.04). CONCLUSIONS VR improved patient-centered outcomes for cardiac catheterization. This study highlights the importance of enhancing patient understanding for routine procedures. VR has been shown to improve holistic care in this patient population.