Smileyscope: FDA-Cleared VR Device Eases Paediatric Pain

Innovative VR Technology Redefines Paediatric Pain Management

Smileyscope, a recently FDA-cleared virtual reality (VR) device designed for children, offers a pioneering approach to alleviate the pain associated with blood draws or IV insertions. 

By immersing young users in an underwater adventure led by animated character Poggles the Penguin, the device transforms medical procedures into positive experiences. Clinical trials, involving over 200 children aged 4 to 11, reported a remarkable reduction in self-reported pain levels by up to 60% and anxiety levels by up to 40%.

VR prototype designed to relieve patient anxiety

Beyond Distraction: The Complexity of Smileyscope

Unlike traditional distraction methods, Smileyscope operates on a deeper level. Rooted in the theory proposed by Ronald Melzack and Patrick Wall in the 1960s, Smileyscope leverages virtual reality to engage the brain with alternative stimuli, effectively closing the “gates” that allow pain signals to reach the brain. Paul Leong, Chief Medical Officer and Co-founder of Smileyscope, highlights the device’s unique mechanism of action.

Smileyscope distinguishes itself by reframing stimuli positively. Instead of conventional immersive experiences, the device introduces Poggles the Penguin, offering a thorough procedure walk-through to reduce anxiety. The underwater adventure, complete with “surprise visitors,” aims to uplift mood, providing a stark contrast to the often stressful clinic environment.

Beth Darnall, a psychologist and director of the Stanford Pain Relief Innovations Lab, commends Smileyscope’s approach as “really powerful.”

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VR Beyond Pediatric Pain: A Growing Landscape

While Smileyscope focuses on paediatric pain, similar technologies have emerged for various applications. VR games like SnowWorld, developed two decades ago by researchers at the University of Washington, aid individuals with severe burns during painful procedures. Companies are also exploring VR for postoperative pain, childbirth, and pain associated with dental procedures.

In 2021, RelieVRx became the first FDA-authorized VR therapy for chronic pain. Developed by AppliedVR, it takes a different approach. Rather than distraction, RelieVRx teaches pain relief strategies such as mindfulness and cognitive-behavioral therapy. The device, meant for home use, offers a promising option for the 50 million people in the US dealing with chronic pain that medication cannot fully control.

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Challenges and Future Prospects

While VR technology presents promising solutions, it is not without challenges, including nausea, headaches, and motion sickness. Despite potential drawbacks, Smileyscope and similar devices provide valuable tools to enhance patient experiences, especially for children facing medical procedures. 

These innovations not only reduce immediate pain but also aim to shape positive behaviours for future interactions with the medical system.

In the case of Smileyscope, the motivation for its creation stemmed from a patient’s traumatic experiences with medical procedures in childhood, emphasising the potential long-term impact of positive interventions. The landscape of VR in healthcare continues to evolve, offering new avenues for pain management and improved patient outcomes.