Virtual reality exposure therapy for PTSD Vietnam veterans: A case study

Virtual reality (VR) integrates real-time computer graphics, body tracking devices, visual displays, ann other sensory input devices to immerse a part icipant in a computer-generated virtual environment that changes ill a natu ral way With head and body motion. VR exposure (VRE) is proposed as an alte rnative to typical imaginal exposure treatment for Vietnam combat veterans with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This report presents the results of the first Vietnam combat veteran with PTSD to have been treated with VR E. The patient was exposed to two virtual environments, a virtual Huey heli copter flying over a virtual Vietnam and a clearing surrounded by jungle. T he patient experienced a 34% decrease oil clinician-rated PTSD and a 45% de crease on self-rated PTSD. Treatment gains were maintained at 6-month follo w-up.