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

Am J Gastroenterol. 2024 Jan 1;119(1):210-213. doi: 10.14309/ajg.0000000000002492. Epub 2023 Sep 1.

Abstract

Introduction: We investigated the efficacy and safety of virtual reality (VR) for functional dyspepsia.

Methods: 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.

Results: 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.

Discussion: VR is safe and results in significant symptom improvement in functional dyspepsia. Larger trials are warranted.

Publication types

  • Randomized Controlled Trial

MeSH terms

  • Abdominal Pain / diagnosis
  • Abdominal Pain / etiology
  • Abdominal Pain / therapy
  • Double-Blind Method
  • Dyspepsia* / diagnosis
  • Dyspepsia* / therapy
  • Humans
  • Pilot Projects
  • Severity of Illness Index
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • Vomiting