Universal Maternal Abdomen with Fetal Pleural Shunt Insertion

The images and video below illustrate how the Universal Maternal Abdomen (with insert liner) can be used with the 23 week-old fetal model that has been developed for teaching ultrasound guided fetal shunt insertion procedures. 

 

This simulation option includes 3 fetal models of 23-weeks gestation with a hollow fluid-filled chest cavity. This model also includes an integrated intravenous line that is connected to the fetus' umbilicus. This is used to introduce additional fluid to the chest and maintain pressure in the chest cavity during the shunt insertion procedure. 

 

Please note: Although the ultrasound visualization properties of the fetus are basic, this model has proven to be effective in teaching all of the complex processes associated with chest shunt insertions.

 

This unique simulation environment is the only one of its kind in the world thanks to the guidance and medical expertise of Dr. Rory Windrim, Dr. Greg Ryan, Dr. Tim Van Mieghem, Dr. Johannes Keunen, and Dr. Nimrah Abbasi (Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto). Additional contributions and medical expertise were provided by Dr. Dick Oepkes (Leiden University Medical Centre), Dr. Jan Deprest (University of Leuven, Belgium) and Dr. Richard Pittini (Sunnybrook Hospital, Toronto).