Alexander Woywodt1, Thien How, Michael Schulz. 1. Department of Nephrology, Lancashire Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Preston, UK. Alex.Woywodt@lthtr.nhs.uk
Abstract
AIMS: To construct a simple and affordable simulator for ultrasoundguided percutaneous renal biopsy. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The kidney biopsy phantom was constructed by embedding a porcine kidney in gelatine. Silicon carbide and aluminium oxide were used as scattering particles in order to mimic the ultrasound appearance of human tissues. Two porcine ribs were also embedded. A latex sheet was placed over the top of the gel layer to resemble skin. The simulator was used and feedback from participants obtained during a renal ultrasound course with an international audience of middle-grade trainees from adult and pediatric nephrology, many of whom had never done a renal biopsy. Biopsy was carried out a single-use biopsy gun. RESULTS: All participants were able to perform a biopsy and obtain a satisfactory sample. All trainees felt that our simulator was very realistic. 94% of participants agreed that the simulator would help to allay their fears in relation to renal biopsy The total cost of the simulator was around £ 50,- for consumables per simulator. CONCLUSIONS: We describe a purpose-built and affordable simulator for percutaneous ultrasound-guided renal biopsy. We suggest that others evaluate our simulator used as part of a structured approach to teach this important procedure.
AIMS: To construct a simple and affordable simulator for ultrasoundguided percutaneous renal biopsy. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The kidney biopsy phantom was constructed by embedding a porcine kidney in gelatine. Silicon carbide and aluminium oxide were used as scattering particles in order to mimic the ultrasound appearance of human tissues. Two porcine ribs were also embedded. A latex sheet was placed over the top of the gel layer to resemble skin. The simulator was used and feedback from participants obtained during a renal ultrasound course with an international audience of middle-grade trainees from adult and pediatric nephrology, many of whom had never done a renal biopsy. Biopsy was carried out a single-use biopsy gun. RESULTS: All participants were able to perform a biopsy and obtain a satisfactory sample. All trainees felt that our simulator was very realistic. 94% of participants agreed that the simulator would help to allay their fears in relation to renal biopsy The total cost of the simulator was around £ 50,- for consumables per simulator. CONCLUSIONS: We describe a purpose-built and affordable simulator for percutaneous ultrasound-guided renal biopsy. We suggest that others evaluate our simulator used as part of a structured approach to teach this important procedure.