Plain-English translation of NCT03903510 on ClinicalTrials.gov ↗ · Source last updated · Translation generated · How we translate trials
This study doesn't follow the usual testing phases — it may be an observational study or a different type of research.
When children have their casts removed, the saw can be scary—both to look at and to hear. This trial is testing whether virtual reality (VR) headsets can help distract children during this procedure, making it less frightening and uncomfortable. The researchers will compare children who wear VR during cast removal to children who receive the standard comfort methods.
Cast removal causes real pain and anxiety in children, and current comfort methods like headphones and music don't always work well enough. Virtual reality has helped patients feel calmer during other medical procedures, so researchers want to see if it can make cast removal easier for kids too.
You likely qualify if…
You likely don't qualify if…
You will come to the hospital or clinic for your regular cast removal appointment. If you are randomly selected to be in the virtual reality group, you will wear a VR headset during the procedure to watch and experience an immersive virtual environment instead of watching the cast saw. Researchers will measure your anxiety and pain using questionnaires and heart rate monitors before, during, and after the procedure. The whole visit will be similar to a normal cast removal, except for the addition of the VR experience.
AI-generated summary from trial data · Jun 11, 2026 · Not medical advice
United States
Sponsor
Gillette Children's Specialty Healthcare
Enrollment target
~184 participants
Started
May 2019
Primary completion
September 2021
This trial's estimated completion date has passed — the record may not be fully up to date.
Age range
4 Years – 12 Years
Last updated on clinicaltrials.gov in February 2021.
Reach out to the team running this trial. Response times vary — some teams are faster than others.
Central contact
Andrew G Georgiadis, MD
Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon
Tell us you're interested and we'll help connect you with the research team. We'll walk you through what to expect first — no email needed to get started.