NCT06798701 · Roswell Park Cancer Institute
Virtual Reality for Symptom Management in Patients Undergoing Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation
What this study is about
This clinical trial compares the use of virtual reality to standard care for improving symptom management in patients undergoing hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). Significant symptoms experienced by hospitalized HSCT patients include, but are not limited to, depression, tiredness, anxiety, drowsiness, lack of appetite, pain, and overall decreased quality of life and well-being.
View original scientific description
This clinical trial compares the use of virtual reality to standard care for improving symptom management in patients undergoing hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). Significant symptoms experienced by hospitalized HSCT patients include, but are not limited to, depression, tiredness, anxiety, drowsiness, lack of appetite, pain, and overall decreased quality of life and well-being. Virtual reality (VR) as an intervention can provide these patients with a much-needed escape from their reality and has proven results in clinical settings as a distraction therapy. VR technology targets the patient's auditory, visual, and physical contact/touch senses, and has been evidenced to improve depression, fatigue, anxiety, appetite, and pain. Virtual reality may improve symptom management in patients undergoing HSCT.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Adult patients (≥ 18 years old) admitted to Roswell Park on 5 North for planned hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT)
- Must be alert and oriented (Glascow Coma Scale of 15, Nursing Universal Flowsheet) and able to consent to participate in the study
- Expected to be admitted to Roswell Park inpatient unit for ≥ 1 week
- Participant must understand the investigational nature of this study and sign an Independent Ethics Committee/Institutional Review Board approved written informed consent form prior to receiving any study related procedure
Exclusion criteria
- Participants with known brain metastases should be excluded from this clinical trial because of their poor prognosis and because they often develop progressive neurologic dysfunction that would confound the evaluation of neurologic and other adverse events
- Uncontrolled intercurrent illness including, but not limited to, ongoing or active infection, symptomatic congestive heart failure, unstable angina pectoris, cardiac arrhythmia, or psychiatric illness/social situations that would limit compliance with study requirements
- Pregnant patients
- Incarcerated patients
- Patients who are unwilling or unable to follow protocol requirements
- Individuals that are prone to motion sickness, nausea, dizziness, history of seizure, potential for seizure, history of delirium, at risk for confusion, etc
- Participants with audio and/or visual impairments that would preclude them from using a VR device
Where
- Buffalo, New York
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Jun 30, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations