Development of a Field-Expedient Vascular Trauma Simulator

Area of Science:

• Medical Simulation
• Trauma Surgery
• Combat Medicine

Background:

• Declining combat casualty exposure during deployments can lead to reduced proficiency in life-saving interventions.
• Maintaining critical skills for managing noncompressible torso hemorrhage is essential for military medical personnel.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and describe a field-expedient vascular trauma trainer for noncompressible torso hemorrhage.
• To provide a "just-in-time" training solution to sustain confidence and competence in vascular injury management.

Main Methods:

• A low-fidelity simulator was constructed using a Penrose drain, IV tubing, suture, and a cardboard box.
• A higher-fidelity simulator was developed using an aortobifemoral bypass graft, double-lumen endotracheal tube, suture, and a torso mannequin.
• Both trainers were utilized for practicing peripheral shunt placement and definitive vascular repair.

Main Results:

• The developed trainers successfully facilitated training for peripheral shunt placement and definitive vascular repair.
• The trainers utilize supplies commonly available in military medical facilities (Role 1, 2, and 3).

Conclusions:

• Field-expedient vascular trauma trainers can be effectively created using accessible materials.
• These simulators offer a practical method for sustaining critical damage control surgical skills relevant to vascular injuries in deployed settings.