Realidad virtual como coadyuvante en el manejo del dolor de origen oncológico en pacientes pediátricos

Abstract

Introduction: Oncologic pain is characterized by being neuropathic, disruptive, and osseous, so management strategies are oriented to act on these points. Among the pharmacological management strategies, opioids are the first choice. Therefore, the need to apply non-pharmacological strategies, such as virtual reality, allows for reducing the painful experience. Methodology: A narrative literature review was conducted on using virtual reality as an adjuvant in managing oncologic pain in pediatric patients. Results: Virtual reality as non-pharmacological adjuvant therapy for pain management has optimal results in pediatric patients; considerable pain reduction has been evidenced during invasive procedures and controlling anxiety prior to chemotherapeutic or radiotherapeutic treatments. Conclusions: The use of adjuvants in pain management, such as virtual reality, has shown significant effects on anxiety and pain. The characteristics of virtual reality, such as personalization, presence, interaction, and social relationships, allow for solving other limitations of the disease, such as lack of socialization and exploration of the external environment, in addition to avoiding the toxicity associated with the use of opioid drugs.