Ex Vivo Porcine Model for Ureteral Stent Placement Training

Area of Science:

• Medical Simulation
• Interventional Radiology
• Urology

Background:

• Realistic simulation models for interventional radiology procedures, such as double-J ureteral stent (DJS) placement, are currently limited.
• Developing effective training tools is crucial for improving operator skills and patient outcomes in minimally invasive procedures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate an ex vivo simulation model for double-J ureteral stent (DJS) placement.
• To assess the impact of the simulation model on operator knowledge and confidence in performing DJS procedures.

Main Methods:

• An ex vivo model was created using a porcine kidney and a saline bag to simulate the bladder.
• Six faculty and 14 trainees performed DJS placement using the simulation model.
• Key procedural metrics including puncture attempts, insertion time, exchange time, fluoroscopy time, and absorbed air kerma were recorded and compared between faculty and trainees.

Main Results:

• No significant differences were observed between faculty and trainees in puncture attempts, insertion time, fluoroscopy time, or absorbed air kerma.
• Trainees demonstrated a significantly longer exchange time compared to faculty (P = .04).
• All participants reported an increase in self-assessed knowledge and confidence regarding DJS placement after utilizing the model.

Conclusions:

• The developed ex vivo porcine kidney model provides a realistic and effective platform for training interventional radiology operators in double-J ureteral stent placement.
• The simulation enhances operator knowledge and confidence, addressing a critical need for improved training in this procedure.
• Further refinement of the model may focus on optimizing the exchange phase of the DJS placement procedure.