Effectiveness of technology-based intervention in symptom management in pediatric oncology patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract

Background: Technology-based interventions are increasingly integrated to improve symptom management of pediatric oncology patients. However, evidence for their effectiveness remains low across various studies characterized by different methodologies and patient populations. This study aimed to synthesize and analyze the effectiveness of technology-based intervention in symptom management in pediatric oncology patients. Methods: Six databases (PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Ovid MEDLINE, CINAHL, and Scopus) were searched from January 1, 2014, to January 1, 2024. The methodological quality of the included studies was assessed using the Cochrane and JBI checklists. The PRISMA guidelines for systematic reporting were followed in this study. The search protocol has been registered with the PROSPERO International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (CRD42024516320). Results: Thirteen studies with 624 pediatric oncology patients were analyzed. Significant differences were found between intervention and control groups in pain (Hedge's g = −0.695, 95% CI: −0.994 to −0.396, p < 0.001), fear (Hedge's g = −0.737, 95% CI: −1.01 to −0.464, p < 0.001), anxiety, and nausea and vomiting (Hedge's g = −0.573, 95% CI: −0.912 to −0.235, p < 0.001). Conclusion: The findings indicate that VR, iPad, humanoid robots, and Pain Squad reduce pain in pediatric oncology. VR, biofeedback-based VR, and iPads also alleviate fear, while all three plus humanoid robots mitigate anxiety. VR, interactive mobile apps, tablet games, text reminders, and iPads effectively decrease nausea and vomiting. More research is needed to evaluate the long-term effects of these interventions. © 2025 Elsevier Inc.