Promoting simulation-based training in radiology: a homemade phantom for the practice of ultrasound-guided procedures.

Abstract

Ultrasound-guided intervention is an essential skill for many radiologists and critical for accurate diagnosis and treatment in many radiology subspecialties. Simulation using phantoms have demonstrated statistically significant benefits for trainees within the literature. We propose a novel phantom model which the authors feel is ideal for training clinical radiology trainees in the performance of ultrasound-guided procedures. The recipe to prepare a homemade phantom is described. Results of a local survey from trainees preparing and using the phantom are also presented. This realistic training simulation model can be adapted to suit a variety of biopsy devices and procedures including soft tissue biopsy and cyst aspiration. The phantom mimics the sonographic appearances of soft tissue and biopsy targets can be concealed within. The phantom was easily prepared by 22 trainees (Likert score 4.5) and it functioned well (Likert score of 4.7). In summary, our phantom model is ideal for training clinical radiology trainees in the performance of ultrasound-guided core biopsy. The availability and low cost of the model, combined with the ease of preparation and reproducibility, make this an efficient and effective addition to the training process. A low cost easily handmade phantom recipe is described that could be easily implemented in training schemes.