A realistic, durable, and low-cost training model for percutaneous renal access using ballistic gelatin

Özet

Objective: The purpose of this study was to design and implement a realistic, durable, and low-cost trainingmodel for percutaneous renal access.Material and methods: Ballistic gelatin mixed with radiographic contrast was poured into surgical glovesto create a radio-dense renal collecting system. The collecting system model was then embedded in a pureballistic gelatin block resting upon a clear acrylic glass base. Finally, the model was covered by a visuallyopaque polyurethane foam cover with chalk sticks positioned to simulate ribs. Experienced attending urologists and interventional radiologists, urology residents, and medical students used the model to access theupper, middle, and lower renal calyces under fluoroscopic guidance. Outcomes included model durability,realism rated by participants on a visual analogue scale, and cost.Results: The ballistic gelatin model was durable and anatomically realistic. Each model sustained over 200needle punctures with no significant compromise in structural integrity or any contrast leakage. Attendingand resident physicians considered it to provide an accurate simulation of renal access and medical studentsand residents considered the model to be a practical training modality (residents 8.4/10 vs. medical students9.4/10). The total cost for one model was $60.Conclusion: The ballistic gelatin collecting system provided a realistic, durable, and low-cost renal accesstraining model. This could allow trainees to develop skills without compromising patient safety.