Neph-ex: a 3D printed interventional radiology training tool for nephrostomy exchange

Area of Science:

• Medical Simulation
• Interventional Radiology Training
• 3D Printing in Medicine

Background:

• Fluoroscopic guidance is essential for interventional radiology (IR) procedures.
• Novice trainees require hands-on practice for image interpretation, procedural execution, and fluoroscopy control.
• A need exists for effective simulation models for complex IR tasks.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate a novel 3D-printed simulation model of the human kidney, ureter, and bladder.
• To assess the model's effectiveness in training fluoroscopy-guided nephrostomy exchange and ureteric stenting procedures.

Main Methods:

• Utilized stereolithography (SLA) 3D printing technology with SLA resin and an Anycubic SLA printer.
• Integrated plastic tubing to simulate the ureter connecting the 3D-printed kidney and bladder.
• The model allowed for fluoroscopic contrast filling, guidewire manipulation, and catheter insertion for simulated procedures.

Main Results:

• The 3D-printed model facilitated training in nephrostomy exchange, nephrostogram, and antegrade stenting.
• Trainees reported increased confidence and familiarity with procedures after using the model.
• Participants demonstrated improved skills in wire and catheter manipulation.

Conclusions:

• The developed 3D-printed simulation model (Neph-ex) is safe and effective for hands-on training.
• It significantly improves trainee proficiency in fluoroscopy-guided nephrostomy exchange and antegrade ureteric stenting.
• This represents a novel, unpublished simulation approach for these specific IR procedures.