Holographic technology as a new pain-reducing solution for Children

Management of medical fear and pain is a complex mission in children. Holographic technology provides an innovative distraction approach. To our knowledge, holograms have not been used in hospitals before.

The aim was to deliver holographic characters as a new digital pain and stress reducing tool in medicine.

Methods

The study was performed at Tartu University Children's Hospital during 2020-2021. 62 children aged 10 months to 11 years (5.31 yrs; SD=2.63) underwent painful procedures: intravenous cannulations, blood tests. The hospital pain was examined via parents’ questionnaires and children's pain scores by FLACC/VAS before and after viewing holograms, assessed by nurses. 33 playful holographic characters with HYPERVSN 3D devices were presented with music. Holograms were shown for 3-10 minutes depending on the procedure.

Results

We found that the use of holographic techniques (HT) was effective: before viewing holograms 7% of children had severe, 64% moderate, 22% mild and 7% no distress. After viewing holograms, positive effect was reported: 50% of children were stress-free, 43% had mild, 7% moderate and no children with severe discomfort. Increased cooperation in Botox and blood pressure procedures. HT was effective in all age groups, including babies; parents reported calming effects of holograms on themselves, confirming the suitability of HT for adults.

Conclusions

Holograms are the new tools to prepare and guide patients during painful procedures. Holograms also improved children's’ emotional state and pain control. We encourage technicians to create and develop new 3D solutions based on HT to improve healthcare services.