[Evaluation of the use of virtual reality hypnosis during Port-a-cath® placement in adult oncology patients as an effective alternative to intravenous sedation : a pilot study].

Virtual reality hypnosis (VRH) is a promising tool for managing pain and anxiety during medical procedures. This study evaluated the feasibility of using VRH instead of intravenous sedation (IVS) for implanting a Port-a-cath® (PAC) under local anesthesia in oncology patients.

Methods

twenty adults were randomly assigned to receive either IVS (n = 10) or VRH (n = 10) during the procedure. The primary outcome was the successful implantation of the PAC, while secondary outcomes included the need for rescue medication, procedure duration and levels of anxiety. PAC implantation was successful in all patients, with no significant differences in perceived or actual procedure duration between groups. All IVS patients required sedation without rescue medication, while only one patient in the VRH group requested rescue medication. There was no significant difference in procedural anxiety reduction between the two groups and no post-operative complications were reported. VRH is a feasible and safe alternative to IVS for PAC placement under local anesthesia in oncology patients. This innovative tool may become essential in clinical practice by avoiding the potential side effects associated with pharmacological sedation while ensuring a similar patient experience.