A Low-Cost Sonographic Canine Simulator for Pericardiocentesis Training

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Medical Simulation
• Diagnostic Ultrasound

Background:

• Traditional pericardiocentesis training occurs in high-stress clinical environments.
• Novice veterinarians require improved confidence and skills for pericardiocentesis.
• A realistic, accessible training tool is needed to bridge the gap between theory and practice.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate a low-cost sonographic simulator for pericardiocentesis.
• To assess the simulator's realism from the perspective of experienced clinicians.
• To measure the impact of simulator practice on novice veterinarians' confidence.

Main Methods:

• A novel simulator was constructed using ballistic gel, silicon foam, and 3D-printed anatomical structures.
• Pericardial effusion was simulated using a water-filled balloon and tennis ball.
• Expert clinicians rated simulator realism; novice confidence was surveyed pre- and post-simulation.

Main Results:

• Experts rated the sonographic simulation of pericardial effusion as highly realistic.
• The simulator's comparability to live canine pericardiocentesis was rated as realistic.
• Novice veterinarians demonstrated significant confidence increases in performing pericardiocentesis, catheter guidance, and placement post-simulation.

Conclusions:

• The developed low-cost simulator effectively mimics canine pericardial effusion and enhances novice procedural confidence.
• The simulator shows promise as a valuable tool for veterinary education in pericardiocentesis.
• Further studies are warranted to confirm the translation of simulator-acquired skills to clinical practice.