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Development and evaluation of a gelatin-based phantom model for veterinary diagnostic imaging training
Muhammad Nico Ghossani1, Maryani Maryani1, Fitra Aji Pamungkas2
1Study Program of Veterinary Medicine, School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, IPB University, Bogor, Indonesia.
Open Veterinary Journal
|June 30, 2026
Summary
Low-cost gelatin phantoms preserved with buffered normal formaldehyde (BNF) provide a durable and effective simulation tool for veterinary diagnostic imaging training. This veterinary phantom development offers an accessible alternative to expensive commercial models.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Medical Imaging
- Biomaterials
Background:
- Simulation-based training improves veterinary diagnostic imaging skills.
- Phantoms are ethical alternatives to animal tissues for training.
- High cost of commercial phantoms limits accessibility in developing countries.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and evaluate a low-cost, gelatin-based phantom for veterinary training.
- To create an accessible simulation model for veterinary diagnostic imaging.
Main Methods:
- Developed a gelatin phantom using animal-based gelatin, with and without buffered normal formaldehyde (BNF) preservative.
- Embedded metal beads, plastic beads, and quail eggs as foreign body models.
- Assessed durability and imaging quality using ultrasonography (USG), digital radiography, and electrical impedance tomography (EIT).
Main Results:
- BNF-preserved phantoms showed minimal syneresis (2.53%) and better durability compared to non-preserved ones (90.95%).
- BNF did not impact echogenicity or foreign body visibility.
- Radiography clearly distinguished foreign body types, while EIT identified them by resistivity contrast.
Conclusions:
- Buffered normal formaldehyde-preserved gelatin phantoms are cost-effective and durable.
- These phantoms serve as a viable alternative for simulation-based veterinary imaging training.
- Enhances accessibility of training tools in resource-limited settings.
