NCT06723158 · Boston University
Oral Surgery Virtual Reality Glasses Study
What this study is about
The goal of this randomly assigned trial is to investigate if using virtual reality (VR) glasses for patients who require non-emergent taken by mouth surgery procedures under given through a vein (IV) (IV) sedation improves their overall experience compared to using the usual treatment safety glasses. This study has two primary objectives. 1.
View original scientific description
The goal of this randomized trial is to investigate if using virtual reality (VR) glasses for patients who require non-emergent oral surgery procedures under intravenous (IV) sedation improves their overall experience compared to using standard of care safety glasses. This study has two primary objectives. 1. To evaluate if VR glasses can improve patient tolerance during IV access, sedation induction, and the surgical procedure. 2. To investigate whether the use of VR glasses reduces the amount of sedation required for induction and throughout the oral surgery procedure. 80 subjects will be randomly assigned 1:1 to either wear VR glasses playing a relaxing video and audio or VR glasses that will only serve as eye protection (control group).
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
- Patients requiring IV sedation for oral surgery procedure
- Patients able to understand the use of virtual reality glasses and provide informed consent/assent
- Patients classified as American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) I or II
- No reported substance use within the previous 24 hours
- No reported excessive alcohol consumption
- Willingness to wear eye protection
- Willingness to use certified interpreters if required
- A legal guardian must accompany minors
Exclusion criteria
- Patient with hearing aids or severe hearing impairment
- Patient with blindness or significant visual impairment that is not corrected by contact lenses
- Patients with cognitive impairments determined and assessed by the researchers
- Pregnant women or women who could be pregnant based on self reporting
- Patients unable to tolerate virtual reality glasses due to motion sickness or other issues
- Patients with history of seizures or epilepsy per self report
- Patients who cannot tolerate VR glasses due to discomfort or a medical emergency that arises during the procedure
Where
- Boston, Massachusetts
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 Apr 7, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations