Brumunddal

This research focuses on parastomal hernia, a condition requiring surgical repair. It evaluates an endoscopic approach called endoscopic trans-abdominal preperitoneal plasty (TAPP), which uses a specialized technique called transversus abdominis release (TAR) along with mesh reinforcement following the Sugarbaker principle. The study includes both laparoscopic and robotic surgery methods and also addresses repair of any accompanying midline hernias using an enhanced-view Rives-Stoppa technique. Participants undergo a procedure involving endoscopic preperitoneal repair of the parastomal hernia. This repair follows the Sugarbaker principle combined with TAR and uses mesh reinforcement placed extraabdominally, anterior to the transversalis fascia. The interventions include minimally invasive laparoscopic or robotic techniques to perform this repair. During the study, researchers monitor participants for any adverse events over a one-month period after surgery. The study involves procedural assessments and observation of outcomes related to safety and effectiveness of the repair method. Participant involvement is centered around the surgical intervention and follow-up for one month to track any complications or adverse events.

Researchers are evaluating a virtual reality (VR) technology designed to improve social functioning among adults with substance use and mental health disorders. This multi-center, pragmatic randomized controlled trial compares VR training to usual treatment for patients receiving long-term addiction care. The study aims to assess whether VR can enhance resilience, quality of life, practical and social skills, and social participation over a six-month period, as well as evaluate the cost-effectiveness of this VR intervention. Participants will receive VR training focused on social cognition, communication, and competence using realistic scenarios. The VR setup includes a Meta Quest Pro headset connected to a PC running Windows 11 with Unreal Engine 5.4, operating entirely offline without storing session data. The VR sessions occur twice weekly for five weeks. The comparison group will receive standard addiction treatment without VR. Throughout the study, participants will be monitored from enrollment through about six months for health and disability outcomes. Researchers will collect information on social functioning and quality of life. The study includes adult patients aged 18 to 70 years undergoing inpatient substance use disorder treatment in specialized units in South-East Norway. Safety during VR sessions is ensured by excluding individuals with conditions like epilepsy or severe sensory impairments.