Use of an extracorporeal circulation perfusion simulator: evaluation of its accuracy and repeatability.

Medical simulators have mainly been used as educational tools. They have been used to train technicians and to educate potential users about safety. We combined software for hybrid-type extracorporeal circulation simulation (ECCSIM) with a CPB-Workshop console. We evaluated the performance of ECCSIM, including its accuracy and repeatability, during simulated ECC. We performed a detailed evaluation of the synchronization of the software with the console and the function of the built-in valves. An S-III heart–lung machine was used for the open circuit. It included a venous reservoir, an oxygenator (RX-25), and an arterial filter. The tubes for venous drainage and the arterial line were connected directly to the ports of the console. The ECCSIM recorded the liquid level of the reservoir continuously. The valve in the console controlled the pressure load of the arterial line. The software made any adjustments necessary to both arterial pressure load and the venous drainage flow volume. No external flowmeters were necessary during simulation. We found the CPB-Workshop to be convenient, reliable, and sufficiently exact. It can be used to validate procedures by monitoring the controls and responses by using a combination of qualitative measures.