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Author Spotlight: Using Point-of-Care Ultrasound for Comprehensive Evaluation of the Abdominal Aorta
Published on: September 8, 2023
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Anatomically realistic aortic dissection simulator as a potential training tool for point-of-care ultrasound
Mutiah Rahmah1, Rania Hussien Al-Ashwal2, Maheza Irna Mohamad Salim2
1Department of Biomedical Engineering and Health Sciences, Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Skudai, Malaysia.
Journal of Ultrasonography
|February 12, 2024
Summary
This study developed novel 3D simulators for aortic dissection diagnosis. These models accurately replicate the intimal flap
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Medical Simulation
- Diagnostic Imaging
Background:
- Point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) is crucial for diagnosing aortic dissection.
- Current simulators lack anatomical complexity, limiting POCUS training accuracy.
- Accurate simulation models are needed to improve diagnostic skills.
Purpose of the Study:
- To create a realistic 3D simulator of a healthy ascending aorta and DeBakey type II aortic dissection.
- To evaluate the simulator's utility as a POCUS training model.
Main Methods:
- 3D models were generated from CT scans of healthy and dissection patients.
- Polyvinyl alcohol and silicone-based simulators were synthesized.
- Scanning electron microscopy and ultrasound assessments were performed.
Main Results:
- Simulators mimicked the disorganised surface texture and increased RMS values of dissected aortas.
- Ultrasound revealed increased diameter and thinner walls in dissected aorta simulators.
- The intimal flap was successfully replicated, appearing as a hyperechoic structure on ultrasound.
Conclusions:
- The developed simulators accurately replicate the surface morphology and echogenicity of the aortic intimal flap.
- These models offer a promising tool for POCUS training in aortic dissection diagnosis.
