A Novel Plant Based Ultrasound Phantom

Abstract

Introduction In most of the ultrasound guided regional anaesthesia workshops, anaesthesiologists usually concentrate on identification of nerves & plexus on human volunteers and practice needling techniques on phantom. Proper needle insertion technique and correct manipulation are two important skills for ultrasound-guided peripheral nerve blocks. These skills can be sharpened by practicing on ultrasound phantom. It also helps anaesthesiologists to develop, practice and maintain the skills needed for regional anaesthesia and vascular access procedures [1]. But the use of phantoms is often limited due to the cost of the blue phantom [2]. Many courses use meat-based products like turkey legs or porcine models but these may not be acceptable to everyone [3,4]. Vegetable based models using gelatine also may not be acceptable as it too is made from animal products. We describe novel use of Aloe Vera (AV)stem as phantom for US guided needling training. This natural AV gel-based phantom can be used for scanning, needling and refine other relevant skills. The AV phantom can be constructed from low cost, readily available natural source and is reusable. Various materials have been used to make ultrasound training phantoms. Commercially available phantoms are expensive and homemade nerve block models are cumbersome to prepare [5]. The Aloe Vera gel is obtained from Aloe Vera plant (Aloe barbadensis miller). It is a natural product which has been used for centuries in various field specially in dermatology. Aloe Vera leaves are triangular and fleshy with serrated edges. Each leaf contains an inner clear gel which is made of 99% water and other substances (glucomannans, amino acids, lipids, sterols and vitamins) [6]. Aloe Vera is odorless and semi-transparent unlike meat-based models. Preparing the Aloe Vera US Model The covering of the leaves is non-echogenic and hence the pulp from Aloe Vera leaves is separated and placed in layers and covered with a Transparent Dressing(Te