Realistic and inexpensive ultrasound phantoms to demonstrate aortic aneurysm and aortic dissection.

Abstract

Using ultrasound to evaluate for the presence of aortic pathology is a common procedure in the emergency department. Phantoms are models that are used to simulate clinical conditions for teaching ultrasound-related skills. To date, no 'homemade' phantom has been created to model aortic aneurysms, and no phantoms exist to model aortic dissection. We used several readily available, inexpensive ingredients to create ultrasound phantoms. These phantoms realistically mimic aortic aneurysm and aortic dissection. These are the first 'homemade' phantoms that demonstrate aortic pathology. We have created realistic, affordable, easily reproducible phantoms for use in teaching clinicians to use ultrasound when evaluating patients for aortic aneurysm and/or aortic dissection.