The group from the University of Utah developed its patient-specific haptic simulator to allow trainees to improve upon their ability to perform TIPS, a complex image-guided procedure associated with high morbidity and mortality rates.
"A growing body of evidence demonstrates simulators enhance user confidence, decrease complications, decrease procedural time, and decrease radiation exposure," Dr. Adriene Eastaway told AuntMinnie.com.
To create the simulator, the researchers acquired abdominal CT angiography scans of several patients and used image-processing software to convert the scans into virtual 3D models of the liver, including vasculature and surrounding anatomy. Then they 3D printed individual components using different materials. For example, they used elastic resin to create hollow vessels such as the portal vein, whereas they used a reusable silicone mold for liver tissue.
Finally, they made the virtual 3D liver models compatible with AR and VR technology such that users were able to wear either an AR or VR headset and refer to the virtual models while simulating TIPS on the 3D-printed liver model.
"A trainee is able to physically practice a procedure and simultaneously refer to the anatomy with a 3D model which projects over the simulator for anatomical reference," Eastaway said.
The patient-specific 3D-printed TIPS simulator coupled with AR and VR anatomic holograms may help improve trainee performance and also reduce clinical morbidity and mortality, the group noted.
