Low-cost Simulator Research Articles

681 Application of Low-Cost Automated Progress Tracking System (APS) on Laparoscopic Appendicectomy Simulation Models (LaApSi) for the Laparoscopic Simulation Training in the Lower-Middle-Income-Countries (LMICs)

Abstract Aim To assess the effectiveness of the Low-Cost Automated Progress Tracking System on Laparoscopic Appendicectomy (LA) Simulation Models (LaApSi) for Laparoscopic Training in Lower-Middle-Income-Countries (LMICs). To assess and record the progression of trainees’ performance during simulation training. Method After the successful application and validation of the LaApSi model during laparoscopic courses at LMICs, the APS system has been prototyped to assess the trainee’s progression of LA. This system helps to assess surgical steps during simulated LA with the help of the LaApSi model integrated with wires at various anatomical positions giving real-time computer feedback and allowing users to assess the timing of operation, blood vessel excision and injury to the base of the appendix/caecum. Results The prototype version tested in LMIC showed excellent results in the detection of the above-mentioned parameters (shown in photos). This cost-effective model (LaApSi< £5 and docking system <£15) showed huge potential as a laparoscopic training model in LMICs. There will be additional validation of 16 APS models during the Laparoscopic Surgery Course in Nepal in Jan 2024 in collaboration with Nepalese Doctors Association-UK which we believe will further solidify its application in the LMICs Conclusions There is a need for the transition to high-fidelity low-cost laparoscopic simulation models from the traditional training methods in the LMICs which in the long-term address global surgery values. These systems have the potential for remote proctorship in the rural parts adapting the Hub & Spoke model and integrating AI and Machine Learning which eliminates the use of wires and sensors in the models.

An Indigenous Suction-assisted Laryngoscopy and Airway Decontamination Simulation System.

Suction-assisted laryngoscopy and airway decontamination (SALAD) is a new modality and training manikins are quite costly. Few modifications have been described with their pluses and minuses. We describe a low-cost simulator that replicates fluid contamination of the airway at various flow rates and allows the practice of SALAD in vitro. We modified a standard Laerdal airway management trainer with locally available equipment to simulate varying rates of continuous vomiting or hemorrhage into the airway during intubation. The effectiveness of our SALAD simulator was tested during an advanced airway workshop of the Airway Management Foundation (AMF). The workshop had a brief common presentation on the learning objective of the SALAD technique followed by a demonstration to small groups of 5-6 participants at one time with necessary instructions. This was followed by a hands-on practical learning session on the simulator. One hundred and five learners used the simulator including 15 faculties and 90 participants (48 on ICU and 42 on ENT workstations). At the end of the session, the workshop faculty and participants were asked to rate their level of confidence in managing similar situations in real practice on a four-point Likert scale. All 15 faculty members and 70 out of 90 participants felt very confident in managing similar situations in real practice. Fifteen participants felt fairly confident and 5 felt slightly confident. In resource-limited settings, our low-cost SALAD simulator is a good educational tool for training airway managers in the skills of managing continuously and rapidly soiling airways. Kumar R, Kumar R. An Indigenous Suction-assisted Laryngoscopy and Airway Decontamination Simulation System. Indian J Crit Care Med 2024;28(7):702-705.

Advancing electrodialysis: Harnessing the potential of spiral-wound membrane stacks for improved desalination-efficiency and cost-efficiency

Membrane separation technology encompasses a variety of processes, of which electrodialysis (ED) has become one of the irreplaceable technologies due to its high concentration factor and energy saving. Currently, the main membrane stacks of ED technology on the market are plate-and-frame membrane (PFM) stacks, while there are almost no spiral-wound membrane (SWM) stacks. The SWM stacks have many advantages, such as higher mass transfer efficiency, higher packing density, etc. Inspired by its advantages, we have designed and assembled a SWM for ED. In this study, the PFM and SWM stacks in the efficacy of the two processes were compared using the Finite Element Method to simulate the distribution of fluid and electric fields within the stacks. The desalination efficiency of SWM has been improved compared with that of PFM. In particular, when the voltage is 36 V, the single path desalination rate is 98.7 %. The effective area of the membrane stack has been increased from 63.6 % to 88.9 % since the components of the SWM stack are more efficient and easy to assemble. Due to its low cost, excellent performance and partial fluid simulation, it is believed that this work can provide an inspiration for the assembly of membrane stacks.

Analysis of the Accuracy of CAM-type Deformity Resection on a Low-cost Arthroscopic Simulator in a Training Scenario.

Objective To evaluate surgeons' performance in resecting CAM-type deformities using a realistic arthroscopic surgery simulator. Methods An arthroscopic simulator was created using low-cost materials with the help of a GTMax Core A1 3D printer and the programs Invesalius and Meshmixer 2017, which were used to develop femoral head parts in ABS material, with the presence of a CAM-type deformity, to mimic a femoroacetabular impact situation. After the operations were performed by 16 surgeons, the femurs were compared to a previous model with deformity and another without, using Cloudcompare, and parameters such as the volumetric difference between the operated femurs, with and without deformity, the minimum and maximum distance between them, the percentage of the deformity resected, the estimated time for total resection of the deformity, as well as a qualitative analysis based on the images and graphs provided by the program representing the areas of the parts resected, were evaluated at the end. Results The average resection speed was 34.66 mm 3 /min (SD = 46 mm 3 /min, max = 147.33; min = -2.66). The average resection rate was 26.2% (SD = 34.7%, max = 111; min = -2). Qualitative analysis showed hyporesection of deformities and sometimes hyperresection of nondeformed areas. The simulator was highly rated by the surgeons, with a tactile sensation very similar to real surgery, according to them. Conclusion Arthroscopic simulators have proved very useful in training less experienced surgeons.

A Novel Low-Cost Simulation Model for Point-of-Care Ultrasound Intussusception Practice.

Pediatric intussusception is a relatively common yet serious condition where prompt diagnosis is crucial. Point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) has proven accurate for diagnosing this disease and can expedite both diagnosis and treatment. Previous research has shown that emergency physicians can diagnose intussusception with acceptable sensitivity and specificity but require prior training in recognizing the pathology. Despite the disease's relative frequency, any individual physician rarely encounters it, making a simulation model vital for learning this ultrasound modality. We created a model using low-cost, easily available components that can be used to train emergency physicians to diagnose intussusception on POCUS.

Experimental and mesoscopic simulation study of size effect on splitting tensile performance of spontaneous combustion coal gangue concrete

The spontaneous-combustion coal gangue concrete (SCGAC) demonstrates different mechanical behavior compared to ordinary concrete owing to its distinct porous structure and the presence of fibrous materials in its coarse aggregates. Presently, research on the macroscopic mechanical properties of SCGAC is reasonably comprehensive; however, it falls short of fully understanding its size effect. This study examines the splitting tensile strength of cubic SCGAC specimens with three strength grades, i.e., C30, C35, and C40, and three sizes, i.e., 100 mm, 150 mm, and 200 mm; proposes a mesoscopic modeling approach based on the computer vision; analyzes the intrinsic mechanisms of splitting failure and the size effect of different strength grades on the SCGAC by utilizing mesoscopic simulation methods. Subsequently, an analysis of the size effect on the splitting tensile strength of SCGAC is conducted based on classical size effect laws. The results reveal the following: The method proposed in this study for mesoscopic modeling is recognized for its low cost, high efficiency, and accurate simulations, fulfilling the required standards for mesoscopic mechanical analysis. SCGAC, as a heterogeneous material, demonstrates significant size effect phenomena that become more pronounced with enhancements in strength grades. The Carpinter fractal size effect law is ideally suited to characterize the size effect patterns in SCGAC. This paper enhances the comprehension of the size effect of SCGAC through a combination of macroscopic experiments and mesoscopic simulations, thereby facilitating its engineering applications.

Cumulative sum learning curve for cordocentesis among maternal-fetal medicine fellows in a low-cost simulation model.

To determine the individual learning curves for cordocentesis in a low-cost simulator for maternal-fetal medicine (MFM) fellows. This observational, descriptive, educational, and prospective study was performed from July through November 2022. After an introductory course based on a standardized technique for cordocentesis, each second-year MFM fellow who accepted to participate in the study performed this procedure using a low-cost simulation model, and experienced operators supervised the cordocenteses. Learning curves were then created using cumulative sum analysis (CUSUM). Seven second-year MFM fellows with no previous experience in cordocentesis accepted to participate in the study. A total of 2676 procedures were assessed. On average, residents performed 382 ± 70 procedures. The mean number of procedures to achieve proficiency was 369 ± 70, the overall success rate was 84.16%, and the corresponding failure rate was 15.84%. At the end of the study, all fellows were considered competent in cordocentesis. One fellow required 466 attempts to achieve competency, performing a total of 478 procedures, but the resident with the fewest attempts to reach competency required 219 procedures, completing 232 procedures. Some of the most frequent reasons for failed attempts included not reaching the indicated point for vascular access (20.99%) and being unable to retrieve the sample (69.10%). CUSUM analysis to assess learning curves, in addition to using low-cost simulation models, helped to appraise individualized learning, allowing an objective demonstration of competency for cordocentesis among MFM fellows.

Development and Content and Face Validation of Low-Cost Simulators Evaluation Instrument

BackgroundDeveloping low-cost simulators is an evolving area within clinical simulation. As such, there is a need for instruments to assess these simulators. The study aimed to develop and evaluate an instrument's face and content validity to assess if an own-made low-cost simulator meets the essential characteristics low-cost simulators should have. MethodMethodological study in two phases. Phase 1 developed the instrument's items, and phase 2 assessed the content and face validity of the instrument and items developed in the previous phase. Twenty-six experts evaluated the face and content validation of the instrument in terms of its representativeness, relevance, clarity and inter-rate reliability. ResultsTwenty-five items distributed in six factors were proposed to experts. All factors and items showed adequate content validity indexes and inter-rater reliability. Face validity was also endorsed for the instrument to represent the desirable key attributes of low-cost simulators. ConclusionThis study provides The Low-Cost Simulator Assessment Instrument, available in Spanish and Portuguese. The instrument, composed of twenty-five items distributed in six factors, has shown adequate content and face validity.

Low-cost otolaryngology simulation models for early-stage trainees: a scoping review.

Medical simulation is essential for surgical training yet is often too expensive and inaccessible in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Furthermore, in otolaryngology-head and neck surgery (OHNS), while simulation training is often focused on senior residents and specialists, there is a critical need to target general practitioners who carry a significant load of OHNS care in countries with limited OHNS providers. This scoping review aims to describe affordable, effective OHNS simulation models for early-stage trainees and non-OHNS specialists in resource-limited settings and discuss gaps in the literature. This scoping review followed the five stages of Arksey and O'Malley's Scoping Review Methodology. Seven databases were used to search for articles. Included articles discussed physical models of the ear, nose, or throat described as "low-cost," "cost-effective," or defined as <$150 if explicitly stated; related to the management of common and emergent OHNS conditions; and geared towards undergraduate students, medical, dental, or nursing students, and/or early-level residents. Of the 1706 studies screened, 17 met inclusion criteria. Most studies were conducted in HICs. Most models were low-fidelity (less anatomically realistic) models. The most common simulated skills were peritonsillar abscess aspiration and cricothyrotomy. Information on cost was limited, and locally sourced materials were infrequently mentioned. Simulations were evaluated using questionnaires and direct observation. Low-cost simulation models can be beneficial for early medical trainees and students in LMICs, addressing resource constraints and improving skill acquisition. However, there is a notable lack of contextually relevant, locally developed, and cost-effective models. This study summarizes existing low-cost OHNS simulation models for early-stage trainees and highlights the need for additional locally sourced models. Further research is needed to assess the effectiveness and sustainability of these models.

Low-cost simulation model for ultrasound-guided punch biopsy and puncture: Construction manual and photo examples.

Ultrasound-guided puncture and punch biopsy pose a particular challenge in ultrasound examination training. These techniques should be learned and performed several times using a simulation model that is as realistic as possible before being applied to patients. While the use of agar-agar-based models is extensively documented in the literature, there is a discernible gap in publications specifically addressing their use in punch biopsy and puncture. The aim was to develop a cost-effective model for the simulation of ultrasound-guided interventions. The developed simulation model is based on the vegetable gelatine agar-agar. The agar-agar powder is boiled in water and colored. Various objects are added to the mass. Blueberries, olives, tomatoes, and cornichons imitate solid structures. Liquid-filled balloons are used to simulate cystic structures. Adding stones can make the exercises more difficult due to hyperechoic reflexes with distal shadowing. With the model, ultrasound-guided puncture and punch biopsies could be successfully simulated, and ultrasound images can be generated for this purpose. The cost of a single model is about 2 euros. Production takes less than 2 hours, including cooling. The pure processing time is 30 minutes. The durability of the models is limited by mold, which occurs after 5 days when stored at room temperature and after 5 weeks in the refrigerator. It was shown that it is possible to produce an inexpensive agar-agar-based ultrasound model in a short time and with easily available ingredients to learn ultrasound-guided puncture and punch biopsies.

Design and analysis of solid ankle foot orthosis by employing mechanical characterization and a low-cost scanning approach for additive manufacturing

PurposeThis study aims to investigate the fabrication of solid ankle foot orthoses (SAFOs) using fused deposition modeling (FDM) printing technology. It emphasizes cost-effective 3D scanning with the Kinect sensor and conducts a comparative analysis of SAFO durability with varying thicknesses and materials, including polylactic acid (PLA) and carbon fiber-reinforced (PLA-C), to address research gaps from prior studies.Design/methodology/approachIn this study, the methodology comprises key components: data capture using a cost-effective Microsoft Kinect® Xbox 360 scanner to obtain precise leg dimensions for SAFOs. SAFOs are designed using CAD tools with varying thicknesses (3, 4, and 5 mm) while maintaining consistent geometry, allowing controlled thickness impact investigation. Fabrication uses PLA and PLA-C materials via FDM 3D printing, providing insights into material suitability. Mechanical analysis uses dual finite element analysis to assess force–displacement curves and fracture behavior, which were validated through experimental testing.FindingsThe results indicate that the precision of the scanned leg dimensions, compared to actual anthropometric data, exhibits a deviation of less than 5%, confirming the accuracy of the cost-effective scanning approach. Additionally, the research identifies optimal thicknesses for SAFOs, recommending a 4 and 5 mm thickness for PLA-C-based SAFOs and an only 5 mm thickness for PLA-based SAFOs. This optimization enhances the overall performance and effectiveness of these orthotic solutions.Originality/valueThis study’s innovation lies in its holistic approach, combining low-cost 3D scanning, 3D printing and computational simulations to optimize SAFO materials and thickness. These findings advance the creation of cost-effective and efficient orthotic solutions.

Effectiveness of a Haemorrhage-Control Task Simulator for Training Nursing Students: A Quasi-Experimental before-after Study

Aim. To assess the efficacy of a low-cost haemorrhage-control task simulator integrated in a high-fidelity simulation scenario to facilitate knowledge and practical skills acquisition, as well as self-efficacy in haemorrhage control among nursing students. Design. A quasiexperimental before-after design was conducted at the University of Almeria. Methods. A one-group preintervention, immediate postintervention, and a third assessment at three months were performed, with the Stop the Bleed Education Assessment Tool used to evaluate knowledge of haemorrhage control, as well as a 5-point Likert scale used to evaluate perceived self-efficacy. The success of controlling exsanguinating bleeding was determined by quantifying the millilitres lost during the intervention and calculating the time required to control the haemorrhaging. The data were reported using the TREND guidelines. Results. One hundred and three final-year nursing students participated in this study. Significant improvements (p&lt;0.001) were observed in pre- and posttest total scores on knowledge of bleeding control, self-efficacy, as well as time is taken and volume loss to control the haemorrhage. Similar results were observed between preassessment and three months postassessment with significant improvements (p&lt;0.001) in all measures. Conclusions. The use of a haemorrhage-control task simulator within a high-fidelity simulation scenario resulted in noteworthy improvements in nursing students’ practical skills, knowledge retention, and self-efficacy. After three months, performance decreased but remained greater than pretraining levels. Thus, broadening the use of this task-training simulator would be of great value to further develop a first responder training approach with healthcare professionals and other laypersons, allowing for greater knowledge distribution and reaching a larger audience. Implications for Nursing Management. The findings underscore the potential efficacy of this simulator as a valuable resource for nursing educators and supervisors to train nursing students and professionals in terms of practical skills, knowledge retention, and self-efficacy in haemorrhage control, fostering a train-the-trainer cascade approach to reach a wider audience and enhance bleeding control proficiency among professionals.

Radar Micro-Doppler Signature Generation Based on Time-Domain Digital Coding Metasurface.

Micro-Doppler effect is a vital feature of a target that reflects its oscillatory motions apart from bulk motion and provides an important evidence for target recognition with radars. However, establishing the micro-Doppler database poses a great challenge, since plenty of experiments are required to get the micro-Doppler signatures of different targets for the purpose of analyses and interpretations with radars, which are dramatically limited by high cost and time-consuming. Aiming to overcome these limits, a low-cost and powerful simulation platform of the micro-Doppler effects is proposed based on time-domain digital coding metasurface (TDCM). Owing to the outstanding capabilities of TDCM in generating and manipulating nonlinear harmonics during wave-matter interactions, it enables to supply rich and high-precision electromagnetic signals with multiple micro-Doppler frequencies to describe the micro-motions of different objects, which are especially favored for the training of artificial intelligence algorithms in automatic target recognition and benefit a host of applications like imaging and biosensing.

Face, Content, and Construct Validity of a Low Cost and Open Source Endovascular Simulator

Face, Content, and Construct Validity of a Low Cost and Open Source Endovascular Simulator

Design, Development, and Validation of a First, Low-cost, Three-dimensional (3D) Printed Optical Urethrotomy Simulation Model

ObjectivesTo develop and validate a low-cost, portable, and reusable simulation model for optical internal urethrotomy (OIU) training. MethodsA 3D-printed low-cost simulation model for OIU was designed locally and the final model was evaluated by trainees and trainers at the urology boot camps (UK, Belgium, Portugal, Poland). Participants were asked to complete a questionnaire, using a 6-item 5-point rating Likert Scale, to assess the model’s anatomic realism. ResultsA total of 27 trainees and 9 trainers evaluated the model. The model’s anatomy and color were rated as the most realistic features, with 88.9% and 11.1% of respondents rating them as good and excellent, respectively. There were no significant differences between consultants and trainees in their assessment of any of the simulation properties of the OIU model. ConclusionsOur study introduces an innovative, lifelike, and cost-effective simulation model for OIU training. Our model provides a realistic simulation of OIU. We feel that our low-cost and reusable model fills the gap in simulation-based training for young trainees in urology.

Emulation-based adaptive differential evolution: fast and auto-tunable approach for moderately expensive optimization problems

In the field of expensive optimization, numerous papers have proposed surrogate-assisted evolutionary algorithms (SAEAs) for a few thousand or even hundreds of function evaluations. However, in reality, low-cost simulations suffice for a lot of real-world problems, in which the number of function evaluations is moderately restricted, e.g., to several thousands. In such moderately restricted scenario, SAEAs become unnecessarily time-consuming and tend to struggle with premature convergence. In addition, tuning the SAEA parameters becomes impractical under the restricted budgets of function evaluations—in some cases, inadequate configuration may degrade performance instead. In this context, this paper presents a fast and auto-tunable evolutionary algorithm for solving moderately restricted expensive optimization problems. The presented algorithm is a variant of adaptive differential evolution (DE) algorithms, and is called emulation-based adaptive DE or EBADE. The primary aim of EBADE is to emulate the principle of sample-efficient optimization, such as that in SAEAs, by adaptively tuning the DE parameter configurations. Specifically, similar to Expected Improvement-based sampling, EBADE identifies parameter configurations that may produce expected-to-improve solutions, without using function evaluations. Further, EBADE incepts a multi-population mechanism and assigns a parameter configuration to each subpopulation to estimate the effectiveness of parameter configurations with multiple samples carefully. This subpopulation-based adaptation can help improve the selection accuracy of promising parameter configurations, even when using an expected-to-improve indicator with high uncertainty, by validating with respect to multiple samples. The experimental results demonstrate that EBADE outperforms modern adaptive DEs and is highly competitive compared to SAEAs with a much shorter runtime.

A115 EVALUATING THE CONTENT AND FACE VALIDITY OF LOW-COST GEL POLYPS FOR POLYPECTOMY SKILLS TRAINING IN NOVICE ENDOSCOPISTS

Abstract Background Polypectomy is an essential endoscopic skill involving the removal of potentially premalignant lesions during colonoscopy. The ad hoc nature of polyp encounters is a significant barrier to polypectomy training, as this limits the ability to deliberately practice the skill. Effective and accessible polypectomy simulators may improve global implementation of polypectomy curricula. Aims To determine the face and content validity of a novel low-cost gel polyp simulator for use in endoscopic training programs. Methods A novel gel polyp simulator with multiple polyp morphologies based on the Paris classification was developed and used with a commercially available colonic phantom (Koken Lower GI Endoscopy Simulator Type II LM-107, Koken CO.LTD, Japan) in an endoscopy simulation-based training course (July, 2023). Feedback based on previous prototypes of the simulator were implemented into the simulator utilized in the present study. Novice (ampersand:003C25 procedures) and expert (ampersand:003E1000 procedures) endoscopists performed simulated procedures with the gel polyps. Using a five-point Likert scale (“strongly agree” to “strongly disagree”), a post-training survey based on previously published surveys used to determine the face and content validity of low-cost physical colonic simulators was administered. A section for additional comments was placed at the end of the survey. Results The face and content validity survey was completed by 3 experts and 21 novices. The median score for all face validity questions was 5 (IQR 5-5) from experts and 5 (IQR 5-5) from novices. The median score for all content validity questions was 5 (IQR 5-4) from experts and 5 (IQR 5-5) from novices. In the additional comments section of the survey, one expert commented that future iterations of the gel polyps should be made thicker so that trainees could practice using endoscopic clips. The gel polyp simulator cost $0.61 CAD/polyp including the cost of materials and 3D printed molds. Conclusions The gel polyp simulator appears to be a feasible modality for polypectomy training that is reproducible using accessible and low cost materials. Face and Content Validity Survey (questions and median survey score) Funding Agencies None

Low-cost low-fidelity task trainer for fetal scalp blood sampling

Fetal blood scalp sampling (FBS) is a critical obstetrical procedure used to assess intrapartum fetal well-being. Unfortunately, standardized task trainers for training Obstetrics and Gynecology (OB-GYN) residents in this technique are currently lacking. In response to this gap, we present a cost-effective task trainer designed to assist trainees in mastering the art of performing FBS. We provide a step-by-step guideline for the development of a cost-effective task trainer tailored for simulating FBS. Six OB-GYN residents underwent a structured theoretical session followed by practical training with the task trainer. Pre- and post-training questionnaires were administered to evaluate the simulator’s efficacy as an educational tool. All participants acknowledged the task trainer’s efficacy in enhancing their understanding of the procedure, resulting in elevated knowledge and confidence across all assessed aspects. Furthermore, every participant endorsed the training for fellow trainees and “agreed or strongly agreed” that the simulator faithfully replicated the procedural experience. This low-cost simulation model for FBS is a valuable training tool with high acceptance and satisfaction rates among participants. Its use has the potential to improve patient safety and increases participants confidence in performing the procedure.

Training in Skull Base Endonasal Endoscopic Surgery: Development and Validation of a Novel Low-Cost Simulation with Animal Cadaveric Model

BackgroundEndoscopic skull base surgery is constantly evolving and its scope has expanded. The acquisition of surgical skills involves a long learning curve with significant risks for the patient. Therefore, training in the laboratory has become essential to achieve appropriate proficiency and reduce the morbidity and mortality associated with these procedures. The objective of our work is to develop and validate a cost-effective and easily replicable simulator for endonasal endoscopy training using a swine cadaveric model. MethodWe used fresh Pietrain swine heads. Training exercises of increasing complexity were performed. A Specific Technical Skills and Knowledge Scale was created considering the objectives to be assessed in each task. After the simulation, the trainees were required to answer a satisfaction survey. ResultsTen participants were recruited (5 neurosurgery residents and 5 neurosurgeons). The simulator assessment showed statistically significant differences between groups. Performance was better among the group with endoscopic surgery experience. Face validity was assessed through a post-simulation questionnaire showing an overall mean score of 28.7 out of 30, indicating a highly positive overall assessment of the simulator. Furthermore, 100% of the trainees believe that including endoscopy training in their education would be beneficial. ConclusionsThe endonasal endoscopy training simulator using a swine cadaveric model is a useful and accessible tool for enhancing surgical skills in this field. It provides an opportunity for training outside the operating room, reducing the potential risks associated with patient practice, and improving the training of residents.

Building Global Partnerships: A Qualitative Exploration of In-Person Training for HealthCare Simulation Educators Working in Low-Resource Settings.

Effective educational initiatives can elevate the quality of patient care globally. Simulation-based education is widely used in high-resource settings, but barriers exist to its widespread use in low-resource settings. Vital Anesthesia Simulation Training (VAST) overcomes these barriers by offering immersive, low-cost portable simulation along with simulation facilitator training. During the COVID-19 pandemic, in-person courses were stopped for more than 2 years. Postpandemic, a 3-day VAST SIMposium was hosted in Rwanda to unite 42 VAST facilitators from 12 widespread countries to introduce new and revised course materials and to rejuvenate dormant skills. The purpose of this study was to explore how the VAST SIMposium influenced perceived development of skills, confidence, and engagement in a community of practice for simulation educators working in low-resource settings. This qualitative study involved in-depth interviews with a purposive sample of 16 VAST SIMposium attendees. Transcripts of audio recordings were analyzed using inductive thematic analysis. Six themes were identified during data analysis: 1) Diversity with shared passion for medical education; 2) Supportive in-person learning environment; 3) Simulation-based education relevant to low-resource settings; 4) Camaraderie; 5) Building knowledge, skills, and confidence; and 6) Being part of a community of practice. The SIMposium rejuvenated passion, knowledge, skills, and, most importantly, strengthened global connections and partnerships. These collaborations will benefit areas that are underrepresented in simulation and will ultimately improve patient outcomes. A SIMposium of this format is an efficient and effective way to foster sustainable global dissemination of simulation-based global health education.