Design and Validation of a Soft Robotic Simulator for Transseptal Puncture Training

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Interventions
• Medical Simulation Technology
• Robotics in Medicine

Background:

• Transseptal puncture (TP) is crucial for accessing the left atrium during cardiac catheterization.
• Current training for TP relies on patient procedures, posing risks for novice operators.
• Developing safe and effective training methods is essential for improving TP skills.

Purpose of the Study:

• To create a low-risk training environment for transseptal puncture (TP) operators.
• To develop a simulator that accurately replicates the cardiac environment and TP procedure.
• To validate the simulator's effectiveness and realism for training purposes.

Main Methods:

• Development of the Soft Active Transseptal Puncture Simulator (SATPS) with three subsystems: a soft robotic atrium, a fossa ovalis insert, and a simulated echocardiography environment.
• Pneumatic actuators were used to mimic heart dynamics.
• Benchtop testing and evaluation of face and content validity by experienced clinicians were performed.

Main Results:

• The SATPS accurately simulated atrial dynamics, tissue properties, and puncture forces.
• Both passive and active actuation states were found suitable for diverse cardiac conditions.
• Clinicians rated the simulator as realistic and valuable for training cardiology fellows.

Conclusions:

• The Soft Active Transseptal Puncture Simulator (SATPS) provides a viable training solution for novice transseptal puncture operators.
• This simulator can enhance catheterization skills and potentially reduce complications by allowing practice before patient interventions.