Effectiveness of Buzzy on Pain and Anxiety in Children and Adolescents Undergoing Needle Procedures: A Meta-Analysis.

Abstract

The use of cold vibration through the Buzzy device appears promising in reducing pain and anxiety levels in children and adolescents during needle-related procedures. This systematic review and meta-analysis summarizes and evaluates the evidence on this non-pharmacological treatment for pediatric patients undergoing venipuncture or injection procedures. A search was conducted across 6 databases in January 2025. Sixteen randomized controlled trials, involving a total of 1486 patients, were included. Cold vibration stimulation significantly reduced pain (Standard Mean Difference SMD -1.06, 95% confidence interval [-1.39, -0.72], P < .00001) and anxiety levels (SMD -1.60, 95% confidence interval [-2.70, -0.51], P = .004) compared to the control group. The judgment for the direction of the recommendation was rated "for" the Buzzy intervention, with the strength of the recommendation rated as "weak." The use of cold vibration through the Buzzy device may have beneficial effects in reducing anxiety and pain levels in children and adolescents undergoing needle procedures.