Creation of a training simulator model for practising puncture of the kidney calyceal system under ultrasound control
Introduction. In the modern world, training on medical simulators is actively used in the training of specialists. To improve the skill of puncture of the cavity system of the kidney, many simulators have been created, from biological ones to virtual reality simulators, but all of them have drawbacks - high cost, short shelf life, inconsistency with reality.Purpose of the study. To create a simulator model that will be identical in its anatomical and acoustic properties to the kidney and adjacent human tissues, as well as convenient to use and affordable for most universities and clinics.Materials and methods. The samples of simulators based on glycerin and gelatin were created. A study of the speed of sound in all compositions was carried out, as well as a study of track formation after passing the puncture needle, as well as the ability of the compositions to overgrow (sticking) tracks. The model of the simulator was tested by urologists.Results. As a result of the tests, it was found that the samples based on gelatin and glycerin are more wear-resistant, the shelf life is longer than that of other samples, and this model is as close as possible in its acoustic properties to human tissues. When testing the simulator, specialists highly appreciated the quality of visualization of both the kidney model itself and the needle during puncture, as well as visualization during repeated punctures.Conclusion. The simulator developed by us can be used to train young specialists, to assess the practical and theoretical skills of graduates within the framework of accreditation, as well as to continuously improve the qualifications of specialists and when planning surgical intervention for a particular patient.