The usefulness of vertebral needle targeting simulation training system using ray-summation imaging: experimental...

Area of Science:

• Medical Simulation
• Radiology
• Surgical Training

Background:

• Vertebral needle targeting is a critical skill in spinal interventions.
• Developing effective simulation systems is essential for surgical training.
• Multi-detector computed tomography (MDCT) and 3D imaging offer advanced visualization for training.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and assess the utility of a novel vertebral needle targeting simulation system, SNIPURS.
• To evaluate the impact of coaching on learning curves within the SNIPURS training system.

Main Methods:

• Twenty-one participants were divided into expert, coached trainee, and uncoached trainee groups.
• Participants performed six tests of vertebral needle targeting on simulated spinal fractures using SNIPURS.
• Performance was scored based on accurate trans-pedicular puncture point and angle determination.

Main Results:

• The expert group consistently scored highest initially.
• The coached trainee group's scores improved significantly, matching the expert group by the final tests.
• All participants in the expert and coached groups achieved perfect scores by the end of training.

Conclusions:

• SNIPURS is a suitable tool for vertebral needle targeting simulation training.
• Coaching integrated with SNIPURS training accelerates skill acquisition in spinal puncture techniques.
• The system demonstrates potential for improving procedural training in percutaneous vertebroplasty (PVP).