Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 13, 2026
Development and Evaluation of 3D-Printed Cardiovascular Phantoms for Interventional Planning and Training
Published on: January 18, 2021
Opening the "Black Box" in Transesophageal Echocardiography Teaching: Implementation of 3D-Printed Omniplane
Yifan Bu1, Aidan Sharkey1, Sara Neves1
1The authors are at the Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, in the Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Medicine. is Anesthesiology Fellow; is Anesthesiology Attending; is Anesthesiology Attending; is Internal Medicine Attending; is Department Program Manager; is Research Fellow; is Department Program Manager; is Anesthesiology Professor and Attending; is Anesthesiology Professor and Attending.
Introduction:
Simulation training is an essential component of transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) education, particularly for novice learners. However, a critical limitation of current mannequin-based TEE simulators is their inability to emphasize the spatial relationship between the probe's position and the resulting ultrasound images. This limitation, referred to as the "black box" effect, can make it difficult to understand how probe manipulation affects image acquisition, including probe orientation, beam trajectory, and the intersection of the ultrasound beam with cardiac structures. As a result, educators may struggle to convey these critical spatial concepts using existing simulation tools.
Methods:
A set of 3D-printed TEE training models was first developed to simulate the steps involved in TEE scanning procedures. They also provide beginners with an intuitive visual representation and a mental rotation process, enhancing their spatial awareness. Then, a pre-post pilot study was conducted among third-year clinical anesthesia (CA-3) residents. Three aspects of teaching quality were evaluated before and after the simulation training with 3D-printed models: TEE view-related knowledge, image quality on a mannequin-based simulator, and learners' confidence.
Results:
A total of 10 residents were included in this study. The knowledge assessment score significantly improved after the session (56.0 ± 22.60 vs 93.5 ± 6.26, P < .001). Image quality scores of 8 out of 12 required TEE views were also improved. Using the models positively influenced trainees' confidence in understanding and memorizing basic TEE principles: omniplane angles and corresponding TEE views [1.00 (0.75, 1.25) vs 0.00 (-1.00, 1.00), P < .01]; orientation interpretation [1.00 (1.00, 2.00) vs 0.00 (-1.00, 1.00), P < .01].
Conclusions:
A simulation training session with a set of 3D-printed TEE teaching models significantly improved TEE view-related knowledge, image quality, and learners' confidence among CA-3 residents.
Related Concept Videos
01:17Imaging Studies for Cardiovascular System I:Echocardiography
Indications: Echocardiography is utilized to diagnose heart failure, valve disorders, and myocardial infarction. It also assesses cardiac structures' size, shape, and motion,...
01:20Imaging Studies for Cardiovascular System II:Types of Echocardiography
Types of Echocardiography
Transthoracic Echocardiography (TTE)
TTE is the most common type of echocardiogram which involves placing a transducer on the patient's chest, emitting sound waves to create heart images. TTE is invaluable for evaluating the heart's size, structure, and motion, making it particularly useful for...