Virtual reality exposure therapy for Vietnam veterans with posttraumatic stress disorder

Background: Virtual reality (VR) integrates real-time computer graphics, bo dy-tracking devices, visual displays, and other sensory input devices to im merse a participant in a computer-generated virtual environment that change s in a natural way with head and body motion. VR exposure (VRE) is proposed as an alternative to typical imaginal exposure treatment for Vietnam comba t veterans with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Method: This report presents the results of an open clinical trial using VR E to treat Vietnam combat veterans who have DSM-IV PTSD. In 8 to 16 session s. 10 male patients were exposed to 2 virtual environments: a virtual Huey helicopter flying over a virtual Vietnam and a clearing surrounded by jungl e. Results: Clinician-rated PTSD symptoms as measured by the Clinician Adminis tered PTSD Scale, the primary outcome measure, at 6-month follow-up indicat ed an overall statistically significant reduction from baseline (p=.0021) i n symptoms associated with specific reported traumatic experiences. All 8 p articipants interviewed at the 6-month follow-up reported reductions in PTS D symptoms ranging from 15% to 67%. Significant decreases were seen in all 3 symptom clusters (p < .02). Patient self-reported intrusion symptoms as m easured by the Impact of Event Scale were significantly lower (p < .05) at 3 months than at baseline but not at 6 months. although there was a clear t rend toward fewer intrusive thoughts and somewhat less avoidance. Conclusion: Virtual reality exposure therapy holds promise for treating PTS D in Vietnam veterans.