The birds and the beans: a low-fidelity simulator for chorionic villus sampling skill acquisition

Because no simulation models are described for chorionic villus sampling (CVS), we sought to design and construct a CVS training simulator. Using materials available from our labor floor and local supermarket, we built and demonstrated a practical model for learning transabdominal and transcervical CVS. The simulator can be used to teach single- or dual-operator transabdominal CVS and traditional transcervical CVS. Aspirated "villi" immediately inform the teacher and learner of successful procedures. No image degradation or sonographically visible tracks resulted from use, permitting more than one trainee to benefit from a model. This model for transabdominal and transcervical CVS provides realistic imaging, tactile sensations, and immediate feedback.