NCT06184126 · University of Maryland, Baltimore
Virtual Reality Devices as an Adjunct to Usual Care for Patients With Sickle Cell Disease Experiencing Vaso-Occlusive Crises
What this study is about
This study aims to evaluate the use of virtual reality as an adjunct to standard care for patients with sickle cell disease experiencing vaso-occlusive crises.
View original scientific description
This study aims to evaluate the use of virtual reality as an adjunct to standard care for patients with sickle cell disease experiencing vaso-occlusive crises.
Interventions
DEVICE
Virtual Reality Headset and Hand-Held Controllers
Study Group-Virtual reality headset and hand-held controllers will be used as an adjuvant to pain management care.
OTHER
Blindfolding and Noise Cancelling
Control group-Blindfold and noise cancelling headphones will be a placebo comparator group to the experimental interventions of virtual reality devices.
Primary outcome measures
Comparison of the change in pain scores between the 3 groups at one hour after completion of the study intervention.
Time frame: A single time point 1 hour after the study intervention ends.
Patient reported on 0-10 scale
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 (age \> 18 years) emergency department patient
- History of sickle cell disease
- Presenting to the emergency department due to acute pain related to sickle cell disease thought to be due to vaso-occlusive crisis
Exclusion criteria
- Prior enrollment in this study
- Presenting with a chief complaint suggestive of a complicated crisis (such as concern for acute chest syndrome, splenic sequestration, hepatic sequestration, pulmonary embolism) as determined by the clinical care provider
- Not being treated with intravenous opioids for the vaso-occlusive crisis
- Patients who lack the capacity to provide informed consent
- Medical history of seizures or known intolerance to virtual reality
- Disabilities like vision and hearing defects etc. that preclude the use of a head mounted virtual reality device.
- Known to be pregnant
- Incarcerated at the time of evaluation
- Over the age of 89 years old
Where
- Baltimore, Maryland
Related conditions & keywords
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 Dec 24, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations