Repair of Pulmonary Vascular Injury: A Take-Home Low-Fidelity Simulator

Area of Science:

• Medical Simulation
• Thoracic Surgery Training
• Vascular Repair Techniques

Background:

• Major vascular injuries are rare but critical events in cardiothoracic surgery.
• Effective management requires specialized skills that are challenging to practice.
• Existing simulation models may be costly or complex.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and present a low-cost, accessible simulation model for practicing major vascular injury repair.
• To provide cardiothoracic trainees with a tool for repetitive skill acquisition in a safe environment.

Main Methods:

• Utilized commercially available orthopedic elastic bands to create a realistic simulation.
• Designed for repetitive practice of core skills relevant to vascular injury repair.

Main Results:

• The model offers a simple and inexpensive method for hands-on training.
• Enables trainees to repeatedly practice essential techniques for managing vascular emergencies.

Conclusions:

• This simulation model effectively prepares cardiothoracic trainees for critical vascular injury scenarios.
• Low-cost simulation is a viable approach to enhance surgical preparedness and patient safety.