Virtual reality (VR) technology has demonstrated its transformative potential within the medical sector, particularly in its ability to assist patients in maintaining composure and managing discomfort during image-guided procedures conducted under local anaesthesia. Leading the charge in this innovation is the Medway Maritime Hospital, which has implemented therapeutic virtual reality (TVR) for patients undergoing Interventional Radiology (IR) procedures, including angioplasty, stent changes, and the insertion of feeding tubes.
Research indicates that TVR possesses the remarkable capacity to induce relaxation and alleviate pain by reducing anxiety levels, consequently leading to a reduction in blood pressure. Since its debut as a pilot programme in August of last year, over 200 patients have already derived benefit from the implementation of TVR. Patients are provided with the opportunity to immerse themselves in eight diverse virtual reality environments via a headset during their procedures, such as underwater scenes, sun-kissed beaches, woodland strolls, and tranquil zen gardens. Additionally, patients have the option to engage with accompanying sounds through the headset or wear headphones, whilst the attending staff member utilises a headset with a microphone for seamless communication with the patient.
One such patient who has experienced the transformative effects of TVR is Mr Eric Hitchcock, who underwent bladder removal surgery in 2009 due to bladder cancer. With a solitary functioning kidney operating at a mere nine per cent, Mr Hitchcock undergoes the discomfort of bi-weekly tube changes that facilitate urine drainage. However, since adopting TVR, Mr Hitchcock has reported a complete paradigm shift in his experience, remarking, “It’s brilliant. Really good. It takes my mind off of everything that’s happening and I can’t recommend it highly enough. Quite often I don’t know when the consultant has started or finished the procedure. It’s definitely helped me a lot and I don’t feel achy afterwards like I used to either.”
Ms Andrea Hattabi, Senior Sister for Interventional Radiology, played a pivotal role in introducing TVR to the hospital and has witnessed firsthand its positive impact. She emphasised that the use of headsets during IR procedures effectively block pain receptors and enable patients to divert their focus from the medical intervention, as evidenced by the stabilisation of their vital signs whilst wearing the headset.
The overwhelmingly positive response from patients has reinforced the efficacy of TVR in enhancing patient comfort during medical procedures. Consequently, discussions are currently underway with other hospital teams interested in integrating TVR into their respective services. This development brings hope for the potential extension of the benefits of TVR to other areas of medical care, including paediatric care, thereby reaching an even wider array of patients.
In summation, the incorporation of VR technology in medical procedures has unquestionably marked a significant stride towards the enhancement of patient experience and comfort. The positive influence of TVR in mitigating anxiety and pain during procedures serves as a testament to its potential in revolutionising patient care. As the healthcare industry continues to embrace technological advancements, the role of VR in enriching patient well-being undeniably emerges as a promising avenue for future progress.