Emel DEMIR, Vesile DUZGUNER, Ahmet ATICI, Erhan YENGIL
Interdisciplinary Medical Journal - 2026;17(57):85-93
Objective : This randomized controlled study examined the potential antioxidant effects of a three-dimensional (3D) film prepared for anxiety management in children hospitalized in pediatric surgery clinics. The study aimed to determine whether virtual reality (VR)-based distraction could influence oxidative stress markers associated with preoperative anxiety. Method : 50 children aged 5-12 years were randomly assigned to either a VR group or a control group. After exclusions due to insufficient or hemolyzed samples, 38 participants (18 VR, 20 control) were included in the final analysis. The VR group watched a 3D hospital-themed film using VR goggles before intravenous cannulation. Blood samples taken before and after the intervention were analyzed for total oxidant status (TOS), total antioxidant status (TAS), oxidative stress index (OSI), glutathione (GSH), and cortisol levels. Results : Compared with the control group, the VR group showed significantly lower TOS, OSI, and cortisol levels, and higher TAS and GSH levels (p < 0.001). These results indicate that VR exposure reduced oxidative stress and helped maintain antioxidant balance. Conclusion : The use of 3D VR films prior to minor surgical procedures has been associated with reduced biochemical stress markers in children. In addition to potential psychological benefits, VR intervention resulted in measurable biochemical improvements. These findings suggest that the method could be used as an adjunct non-pharmacological approach in pediatric surgical settings.
