Abstract: SA-PO192
Viability and Fidelity of Low-Cost Gelatin Percutaneous Renal Biopsy Phantom in Simulation Training
Session Information
- Educational Research
October 27, 2018 | Location: Exhibit Hall, San Diego Convention Center
Abstract Time: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Category: Educational Research
- 800 Educational Research
Authors
- Qirjazi, Elena, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
- Chan, Ian Y m, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
- Hemmett, Juliya, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
- Rehman, Faisal, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
- Etemad-Rezai, Roya, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
Background
Percutaneous renal biopsies are crucial for the accurate diagnosis and prognosis of many renal diseases. Most trainees learn this procedure directly on patients, despite its risks. Commercially available phantoms are available for simulation training, but they are expensive and have a limited number of needling attempts. We developed and evaluated an inexpensive kidney biopsy phantom created using ingredients available in most grocery stores.
Methods
The renal biopsy phantom was constructed by inserting a weighted porcine kidney into a gelatinous solution consisting of a mixture of unflavored gelatin, sugar-free psyllium hydrophilic mucilloid fiber (Metamucil), and boiling water. The phantom was refrigerated to allow the gelatin to solidify before use. We evaluated this phantom during three separate 1-hour workshops attended by a combination of nephrologists, nephrology fellows, and radiology and internal medicine residents. Each workshop consisted of a 10-minute didactic demonstration on how to perform ultrasound-guided renal biopsies. The participants then had the opportunity to perform simulated ultrasound-guided biopsies on 1) the gelatin-phantom, and 2) a commercially available phantom (cost ~ $4000 USD). Participants evaluated the workshop and the phantoms using anonymous surveys. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and two sample t-tests.
Results
A reproducible gelatin phantom was engineered with a material cost under $20 USD. 39 individuals participated in the 3 workshops and completed the surveys. Most participants agreed that kidney biopsy simulations are helpful in training residents, and found the workshop effective. The gelatin and commercial phantoms were rated similarly over a number of characteristics, including size, consistency and sonographic changes with multiple needling. Overall, the gelatin phantom was considered superior by 80% of participants. Participants commented: “Great session!”, and “Gelatin phantom is a brilliant simulation tool. It is cheap and you can make new models as needed for tracks”.
Conclusion
We were able to construct an inexpensive and easily reproducible gelatin-based renal biopsy phantom. Our phantom was non-inferior to a more expensive commercial counterpart.