Use of virtual reality in oncology: From the state of the art to an integrative model

Abstract

Over the past 20 years, virtual reality (VR) has been the subject of growing interest in oncology. More and more researchers are studying the effects of virtual environments to contribute to current thinking on technologies likely to support patients undergoing oncological treatment. Recent research highlights how VR can divert attention while reducing anxiety in stressful healthcare situations through its multisensory and participative nature. VR appears to be a promising tool capable of reducing cancer-related anxiety symptoms, improving treatment adherence, and increasing satisfaction with oncology care. While the literature reports these positive effects in the therapeutic management of cancer, few studies have focused on theoretical models capable of explaining the psychological benefits of virtual immersion. This literature review provides a theoretical framework combining results from all relevant empirical work in oncology. The review can help researchers identify the optimal conditions for using VR in oncology and bridge the gap between divergent devices, modalities, and practices (e.g., headmounted displays, environments, interactivity, immersion time).

Research Trends and Highlights Toward Virtual Reality in Patients With Cancer

“…It is predicted that there will be more need for technology-based studies during and after the pandemic period that has affected the world. 11,23,25,34 In addition, this field of study, which is active and open to developmental processes, is an important finding for the increase in the number of studies. 23,25 Therefore, there is a need for quality studies on the examination of all processes of patients in cooperation with all health professionals, not only in the field of nursing.…”

“…9,10 Therefore, VR is an important technological instrument that can be used to reduce negative experiences in patients with cancer. 7,11 Many studies have been conducted in the field of nursing to evaluate the effectiveness of VR in patients with cancer. 2,12 The increase in the number of studies on VR in patients with cancer in the field of nursing shows that the topicality of the relevant field and the intensity of researchers' scientific publication processes have increased.…”

“…2,12 The increase in the number of studies on VR in patients with cancer in the field of nursing shows that the topicality of the relevant field and the intensity of researchers' scientific publication processes have increased. 10,11 The pandemic seems to have increased the need for VR applications, especially among patients with cancer. In the literature, bibliometric analyses have been conducted to examine the focal points of VR in health, virtual simulation in nursing, and VR applications in nursing.…”

“…In addition, it provides an exciting virtual experience by reviving patients' reactions and perceptions 9,10 . Therefore, VR is an important technological instrument that can be used to reduce negative experiences in patients with cancer 7,11 …”

“…Many studies have been conducted in the field of nursing to evaluate the effectiveness of VR in patients with cancer 2,12 . The increase in the number of studies on VR in patients with cancer in the field of nursing shows that the topicality of the relevant field and the intensity of researchers' scientific publication processes have increased 10,11 . The pandemic seems to have increased the need for VR applications, especially among patients with cancer.…”