Virtual Reality Improves Symptoms of Functional Dyspepsia: Results of a Randomized, Double-Blind, Sham-Controlled, Pilot Study.

Cangemi, David J; Montenegro, Marilia; Spiegel, Brennan M R; Lacy, And Brian E · Am J Gastroenterol · 2024

rct · Level II

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Abstract

We investigated the efficacy and safety of virtual reality (VR) for functional dyspepsia. Patients were randomized 2:1 between active vs sham VR. Symptoms were assessed using the Patient Assessment of Gastrointestinal Disorders-Symptom Severity Index (PAGI-SYM) over 2-week. Patients in the active VR group had greater numerical improvement in PAGI-SYM scores (mean difference -0.7; P < 0.001) compared with sham VR (mean difference -0.4; P = 0.032). Active VR led to significant improvements for all PAGI-SYM subscales, except lower abdominal pain, whereas sham only improved heartburn/regurgitation and nausea/vomiting. Half of the total patients reported nonserious adverse effects, although only 1 patient withdrew from the study because of adverse effects. VR is safe and results in significant symptom improvement in functional dyspepsia. Larger trials are warranted.

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