Evaluation of the Impact of Hypnosis for Performing Lumbar Infusion Tests

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are studying the impact of hypnosis on anxiety, pain, and comfort during lumbar infusion tests in adults over 65 years old suspected of having chronic adult hydrocephalus (CAH), also known as normal pressure hydrocephalus. CAH patients often have cognitive-behavioral issues that can affect test interpretation, and current infusion tests are invasive and may cause discomfort. Non-medicinal techniques like hypnosis have shown promise in reducing anxiety in other populations, but their use in elderly patients with mild cognitive impairments has not been explored. Participants are randomly assigned to one of three groups. Group 1 receives a dedicated nurse consultation where hypnosis techniques are explained and applied during the lumbar infusion test, with the nurse physically present at the patient's head. Group 2 has a nurse consultation without hypnosis, and during the test, the nurse stays close but does not interact physically or verbally. Group 3 also receives consultation without hypnosis, but the nurse stays out of the patient's view during the test, with only the surgeon interacting with the patient. During the study, researchers will measure anxiety reduction as the primary outcome over two years, along with secondary outcomes such as pain levels, patient comfort, overall impression, heart rate variation, puncture time, and number of position changes. The lumbar infusion test involves measuring intracranial pressure and injecting saline at a constant rate, lasting 30 to 45 minutes. Participants will be monitored throughout the test to assess these outcomes and the impact of hypnosis on patient experience.

Impact of Hypnosis for Performing Lumbar Infusion Tests