New Training Model For Installing Ultrasound-guided Drainages

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Abscesses and circumscribed collections of fluid are frequently found as complications of infectious diseases or surgery. Drainage is often indicated. We created a new, self- and easy-to-make model to learn and improve competence in installing ultrasound-guided drainage of abscesses. For this purpose, several water balloons were placed in a plastic box which then was filled with instant custard powder mixed with water. Computed tomography (CT) of this box was performed. Experienced (n=4) and not experienced examiners (n=4) drained the balloons using either ultrasound-guidance alone or volume navigation with image fusion (ultrasound with CT). Trainees filled out a questionnaire (before and after the training) asking for information on their experience in ultrasound, in installing drainages and evaluating the new model. The time needed to perform the drainage was measured. None of the participants ever attended a course on drainage installation. Only few of the experienced examiners (n=2) would autonomously install a drainage into a fluid process sizing more than 4cm before the training. Afterwards all candidates felt more confident in ultrasound and all physicians felt more certain in installing drainages into abscesses. Most probands rated volume navigation with image fusion as a helpful tool. Time needed for drainage was 4.6min (range: 1–8min) for ultrasound-guidance alone and 4.7min (range: 3–8min) for image fusion.

Summary:

Ultrasound-guided drainage of abscesses can be trained easily with this new model. Students and physicians can improve skills and gain confidence in performing ultrasound-guided interventions.

Ultrasound-guided drainage - abscess - model - navigation - image fusion