Abstract:
Introduction: The use of ultrasound in anaesthetic
practice continues to be more established and the use of
ultrasound guidance in establishing vascular access is
recommended by various groups. We have developed
a tissue model for the practice and skills development
in ultrasound vascular access.
Method: The tissue model consist of a piece of “pork
belly”, a longitudinal shaped balloon inserted between
two muscle layers at a chosen depth of the tissue model
(mimics a blood vessel), a bag of intravenous fluid
(e.g. Ringer’s Lactate) together with a giving set and a
short piece of extension tubing connected to a threeway
tap used to expel air from the system. One end of
the balloon is tied to the giving set with the intravenous
fluid. The other end is tied to the short tubing with the
three-way tap
Results: Ultrasound images of the fluid filled balloon
mimic a blood vessel. It is possible under ultrasound
guidance to puncture the balloon several times
(>10times) and still be able to distend the balloon with
fluid.
Interpretation: Ultrasound guided techniques require
practice to improve hand-eye coordination. The “pork
belly” tissue model allows multiple needle puncture
without losing its functional integrity.
Conclusion: We believe the “pork belly” tissue model
adds to the range of models that can be used to practice
ultrasound guided vascular access. The components
required for this model are readily available locally and
affordable.