Virtual Reality in Electrophysiological Procedures and Device Implantation: the VR inEP Trial

Patients in the VR intervention group receive a VR 'relax and distract' intervention in addition to standard care. This type of VR utilizes video's, relaxation exercises and cognitive games to immerse patients in a novel, calming and distracting environment, enhancing the patient's ability to manage anxiety, stress and pain. The VR set is introduced to the patient in the cardiology day care unit prior to the procedure allowing for familiarization with the device. After moving the patient to the catheterization laboratory, the VR set is re-offered to the patient and the VR intervention is started. The intervention ends with the conclusion of the procedure, or when the patient indicates that they would like to discontinue the therapy earlier.

Prior to the procedure, patients in the VR intervention group are additionally offered an educational video consisting of a virtual tour of the EP laboratory with a visual explanation of the upcoming procedure. These videos will be recorded as 360ͦ videos to support an optimal immersive experience when viewed on the VR set. In this way, the videos will serve simultaneously as additional educational measures for the procedure, as well as a way to familiarize patients with the VR set. Use of the educational videos is not obligatory, but is offered optionally according to patients' preference.