A cost-effective, easily reproducible, suprapubic catheter insertion simulation training model

Suprapubic catheter (SPC) insertion is a basic skill required of surgical trainees. It is likely a trainee's first attempt at the procedure, will be undertaken without direct supervision at night and without access to aids of catheterization. Unfortunately, lack of simulation models and unpredictability of when SPCs are required, make it difficult to acquire this skill. Therefore, junior doctors frequently persist with urethral catheterization, with an increased risk of urethral injury. Improper catheterization has been cited as the causative factor for urethral strictures. The aim of this study was to develop an SPC model and assess its influence on a trainee's confidence in this procedure.

An SPC model needs to fulfill a number of criteria. It should have anatomic characteristics of a bladder and provide realistic visual and sensory feedback. Cost effective copies of the model, which are able to be rapidly cycled through simulations are needed for effective clinical workshops. Finally, a trainee's understanding and confidence in performing the procedure should increase after using it. This prototype model has 3 anatomic parts: the bladder, the anterior abdominal wall, and the housing abdominal box. The most crucial component is the bladder, which is a balloon with Mefix tape that prevents leaking and "popping" on trocar insertion.

This SPC model can be readily replicated by most clinical school and easily added to surgical workshops to ensure that trainees have hands on experience with this procedure before being required to perform it on patients.