IoT-based mock oxygenator for extracorporeal membrane oxygenation simulator.

Area of Science:

• Medical Simulation
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• High-quality medical training, particularly for complex procedures like extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO), is crucial for patient safety.
• Conventional simulation methods for ECMO training are costly due to disposable equipment, such as oxygenators, which cannot be reused after contamination.
• Oxygenators, vital for ECMO as artificial lungs, present a significant expense in simulation-based training (SBT).

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a reusable, cost-effective mock oxygenator for ECMO simulation-based training.
• To design a simulated oxygenator that accurately replicates the structure and function of a real ECMO oxygenator.
• To reduce the financial burden associated with ECMO training by enabling equipment reusability.

Main Methods:

• A mock oxygenator was designed using 3D modeling and printing technologies.
• The simulated oxygenator was engineered to replicate key operational features, including pump noise and clotting.
• Integration with a modular ECMO simulator was achieved using cloud-based IoT technology for remote instructor control.

Main Results:

• The 3D-printed mock oxygenator successfully replicated the essential structure and operational characteristics of a real ECMO oxygenator.
• The simulation model was capable of mimicking critical events such as pump noise and simulated clotting.
• The mock oxygenator was integrated into a modular ECMO simulator, enabling remote control and enhancing training capabilities.

Conclusions:

• The 3D-modeled oxygenator was successfully tested and integrated with other simulation modules.
• Participants evaluated the effectiveness of training sessions utilizing the new mock oxygenator.
• The developed mock oxygenator offers a viable solution for cost-effective and reusable ECMO simulation training.