PROGETTO DIVING

The DIVING (Diagnostic ImmersiVe ImagiNG) project introduces gamification into the PET-CT diagnostic workflow for pediatric patients, addressing the significant stress and anxiety associated with medical diagnostics. This innovative approach hypothesizes that integrating game mechanics into non-gaming contexts, specifically in medical procedures, can significantly reduce patient anxiety, improve compliance, and maintain diagnostic performance without the need for sedation or high doses of radiopharmaceuticals. The project employs a customized gaming application themed around underwater exploration, delivered to pediatric patients (ages 5-14) throughout the diagnostic process. This method aims to divert attention from the medical procedure, engaging children in an immersive narrative that parallels the diagnostic workflow. The study evaluates the psychological and clinical impact of gamification on patient experience and compliance, utilizing a pre- and post-intervention survey methodology and comparing results with a control group not exposed to the gamification approach. Preliminary findings indicate a significant decrease in anxiety levels among participants, with improved patient cooperation and reduced motion artifacts during scans. The gamified approach allowed for a reduction in radiopharmaceutical dosage while maintaining image quality, thanks to the incorporation of AI tools in image processing. Surveys conducted with patients and caregivers post-intervention reveal enhanced satisfaction with the diagnostic process and a noticeable improvement in the overall hospital experience for pediatric patients. The DIVING project demonstrates that gamification can effectively mitigate the psychological stress of PET-CT diagnostics in children, leading to better patient compliance and potentially reducing the need for pharmacological interventions. This approach not only contributes to the field of pediatric radiology by offering a non-invasive method to enhance patient experience but also signifies a step forward in the application of AI and gamification in healthcare, with implications for reducing radiopharmaceutical use and optimizing diagnostic workflows. Further research and application of this method could transform patient care practices, promoting a more child-friendly, efficient, and less stressful diagnostic environment.