Evaluation of Virtual Reality for Reducing Opioid Use After Cardiac and Thoracic Surgery

Patients in Group 1 will receive standard anesthesia protocol combined with interactive and immersive Virtual Reality (VR) therapy. This includes both engaging in interactive games that require cognitive and motor tasks, such as slicing objects or solving puzzles, and watching immersive 360-degree videos featuring calming environments like natural landscapes. The VR sessions are designed to distract patients from pain perception and reduce anxiety. The intervention will be administered for 3 sessions per day, each lasting 30-45 minutes, over 5 consecutive postoperative days.

Patients in Group 2 will receive standard anesthesia protocol combined with passive Virtual Reality (VR) therapy. This involves the use of a VR headset to watch immersive 360-degree videos, such as tranquil natural landscapes or underwater scenes, designed to promote relaxation and reduce anxiety. The VR sessions do not require active participation, allowing patients to passively observe calming environments. The intervention will be administered for 3 sessions per day, lasting 30-45 minutes each, over 5 consecutive postoperative days.