The effects of music and virtual reality on pain and anxiety during central venous port implantation: a randomised clinical trial

Abstract The value of music (MUS) and virtual reality (VR) in reducing pain or anxiety during central venous port implantation (CVPI) is controversial. We conducted a randomised multicenter controlled trial in 127 patients who received either MUS (38) or VR (38) during CVPI compared to standard (STAND) group (51). The primary outcome was a co-criterion related to pain or anxiety experienced during CVPI assessed using a Numerical Rating Scale. Pain and anxiety were considered independently. The secondary outcomes were the tolerance of the MUS and VR devices, patient satisfaction, and the correlation between mean pain scores and Analgesia Nociceptive Index scores (ANI). There were no differences in pain or anxiety between MUS and STAND. Mean pain was 3.3 ± 2.2 (SD) vs. 3.3 ± 2.6; ( P > 0.9) and mean anxiety was 4.4 ± 2.8 vs. 4.2 ± 3.1; ( P = 0.6). There were no differences in pain or anxiety between VR and STAND. Pain was 3.6 ± 2.3 vs. 3.3 ± 2.6; ( P = 0.5) and anxiety was 3.2 ± 2.3 vs. 4.2 ± 3.1; ( P = 0.11). The MUS and VR devices were well tolerated. Patients were very satisfied. No correlation was observed between pain scores and ANI scores in the three groups. The use of MUS or VR during CVPI had no beneficial effect on reducing pain or anxiety. Trial resgistration ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT04804735; Registred on 16/03/2021.