E1771. 3D-Printing and Gelatin: A Novel Recipe for Musculoskeletal Ultrasound Procedure Simulation
Authors
Pierre Halteh;
University of California, San Francisco
Derek Sun;
University of California, San Francisco
Deana Hammond;
University of California, San Francisco
Nicholas Donnelly;
University of California, San Francisco
Rinal Patel;
University of California, San Francisco
Hailey Choi;
University of California, San Francisco
Background
Ultrasound-guided musculoskeletal interventions, such as joint injections, are becoming more common. The traditional method of on-the-job learning for radiology residents and fellows can lead to significant patient anxiety and varying levels of discomfort for both learner and supervising physician. The use of procedural simulation in radiology training can improve patient safety and trainee comfort and medical knowledge. Commercially available ultrasound models are expensive and may not be widely available; in addition, they wear out and become scarred with multiple needle tracks over time, diminishing their useability. Other models for instructional training also included bovine-porcine meat products, which may not be as agreeable for regular workplace setting. Recently, 3D printers have become more accessible and affordable. Many specialties employ 3D printed models for procedure simulation, but very few studies report applications for nonvascular ultrasound interventions. In addition, 3D printing can accurately replicate human anatomy. Combined with a low-cost ultrasound simulation model recipe (using gelatin and Metamucil mix), 3D printing can be a powerful tool for hands-on teaching of ultrasound-guided musculoskeletal interventions for all radiologists.
Educational Goals / Teaching Points
Our educational exhibit will summarize the types of 3D printers and 3D printing materials, highlight its role for simulation training of ultrasound-guided procedures, depict the methods for creating a shoulder injection model, and share our institution’s preliminary experience and insight.
Key Anatomic/Physiologic Issues and Imaging Findings/Techniques
There is a need for simulation training for image-guided procedures in radiology. Ultrasound-guided musculoskeletal interventions, in particular, can benefit from simulation training, as it has a steep learning curve, and there are fewer radiologists who feel comfortable performing these interventions. We will discuss the pros and cons for on-the-job learning, commercially available simulation models, and 3D-printed models with respect to musculoskeletal ultrasound procedure learning. The exhibit will also provide a global overview, with pros and cons, for different types of 3D printers and printing materials. The exhibit will showcase a step-by-step approach to creating a novel, low-cost simulation model that combines 3D printing with a gelatin mix for ultrasound procedural training. In addition, we will share our institution’s experience and feedback for future improvements and expanded applications for radiology learning.
Conclusion
A novel method combining 3D-printing with a low-cost gelatin mix provides a sustainable, meat-free approach to simulation-based learning for ultrasound-guided musculoskeletal interventions in a controlled, safe environment. Our exhibit will increase readers’ familiarity with 3D printing, a powerful tool for radiology learning.
