It is the work of a Strasbourg start-up, HypnoVR founded in 2016 by two anesthesiologists and an entrepreneur: creating virtual reality headsets that allow patients to be hypnotized during surgeries. South West reports AFP information, following an operation that took place on October 25 in Strasbourg.
Hypnotherapy is already practiced in the operating room, but it takes a long time. The advantage of this virtual reality headset? It takes less time for the hypnotherapist who can take care of several patients at the same time. One of the founders of the start-up, Chloé Chauvin anesthesiologist who practices hypnosis, explains to AFP: “For the moment, virtual reality does as well as hypnosis with a therapist “And adds, that it has the particularity of” facilitating the multisensory isolation of the patient“.
Three universes to choose from and a posteriori advantages
Chloé Chauvin, who works in pediatrics at Hautepierre hospital in Strasbourg continues: “The advantage is that the helmet can also be used a posteriori: after a painful intervention for example if a child asks for it at 10 p.m. Even if the anesthesiologist is gone, we can put it on, there is a 20-minute scenario and it soothes him for several hours.“.
Patients who benefit from the virtual reality headset can choose between three worlds. Whether you prefer an alpine walk, a beach or an underwater world: helmet hypnosis may be right for you. The headset broadcasts a program that combines the image, a sound universe and a voice while respecting the structure of a hypnosis session.
A large economic advantage
For hospitals, the interest of the virtual reality headset is also economical. Each year 12 million anesthesia are performed in France, if helmets become widespread they could reduce patient accommodation costs, the quantities of drugs and anesthesia. This would open up the possibility of more outpatient operations. Obviously, the helmet does not adapt to all operations, especially the heaviest in cases of heavy abdominal or thoracic surgery.
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