Interventional Radiology CathTrain - FAQ

Here are answers to most common questions. Can't find an answer? Call us!

General Questions About Interventional Radiology

Simulation Models

• How are the standard models different from the patient-specific model?

• How are patient-specific models made, and why are they called patient-specific models?

• How are the flow models from SurgeonsLab different from the high-fidelity mixed-reality endovascular simulator?

• Can Neura models be used to train on new medical devices or tools, such as stents or catheters?

• How does the use of Simulation models compare to other methods of training for vascular surgery or other medical procedures, such as live observation or virtual reality?

• Can simulation models from SurgeonsLab be used in the research and development of New Interventional Techniques and Devices, and how is it achieved?

High Fidelity Simulators

• How often do the Simulators update their system software to incorporate the latest interventional techniques and imaging technology advancements?

• How are the high-fidelity Simulators different from the Benchtop Training models?

• What are the potential future developments or advancements in the simulators for medical simulation training, and how might these impact the training?

• Can the Simulators be used for other interventional specialties beyond head, heart, and neck interventions?

Overall

• How do trainees react to using Simulator and Simulation models in the training process, and does this affect their performance or engagement?

• Can the simulator be combined with other training methods or devices to optimize the overall training program, and how is this achieved?

• Is it possible to simulate complications or unexpected events during training with the simulation models, such as ruptures or blockages, and how is this managed?

Performance Metrics and Evaluation

• How does using simulation models and simulators impact trainees' learning curve or skill acquisition, and what factors influence this process?

• What are the specific training outcomes or objectives can be achieved using the simulation models and simulator, and how are these measured or evaluated?

Maintenance

• Can you provide more information on the packaging of the simulation models?

• Is there a need for specific sterilization for the models, fluids, and or simulator upon use?

Interventional Neurology

Aneurysms, Arterial blockages - CathPod^TM

• 1. How does CathPod^TM replicate realistic anatomical structures and physiological conditions relevant to neurological aneurysms?

• 2. Can you describe the level of detail and accuracy in the simulation of vascular structures within CathPod^TM?

• 3. How does CathPod^TM simulate different types of neurological aneurysms, considering size, location, and morphology variations?

• 4. Are there options to customize scenarios to mimic specific patient cases or uncommon aneurysm presentations?

• 5. How does CathPod^TM incorporate medical imaging data into the simulation, and can users interact with imaging studies during the simulation? Can the simulation model simulate the dynamic changes in anatomy and blood flow that may occur in response to treatment interventions?

• 6. What interventional procedures related to neurological aneurysms does CathPod^TM cover, and how accurately are these procedures simulated?

• 7. How does CathPod^TM provide real-time feedback to users during simulations? For example, can it evaluate the accuracy of catheter navigation or the effectiveness of a treatment?

• 8. Does CathPod^TM incorporate potential complications that may arise during interventional procedures, such as vessel rupture or thrombus formation?

• 9. Can CathPod^TM track user progress over time, including performance metrics and areas for improvement? Is there a debriefing feature that allows users to review their actions and decisions post-simulation?

• 10. How user-friendly is CathPod^TM, and what training or support is provided for new users to the simulation model? Can CathPod^TM be integrated into broader medical education curricula or training programs?

Interventional Cardiology

Coronary artery disease – Aortic Arc

• 1. How does the Aortic Arc simulation model replicate the physiological conditions of coronary artery diseases? Can you provide an overview of the key features and components of the Aortic Arc simulation model?

• 2. Are there different scenarios or severity levels for CAD that can be simulated using the Aortic Arc model?

• 3. Can the Aortic Arc simulate various interventional procedures for coronary artery diseases, such as angioplasty and stenting? Does the simulation model provide a platform for practicing different approaches to revascularization?

• 4. How frequently is the simulation model updated to reflect advances in our understanding of coronary artery diseases and their treatments? What support and maintenance services are available for users of the Aortic Arc simulation models?

Heart Valve Disorders

• 1. How accurately does the Aortic Arc model simulate the imaging characteristics of aortic valve stenosis on echocardiography? Can the model depict variations in aortic valve anatomy that may be encountered in real-life cases? Does the simulation allow for the visualization of calcifications or other structural abnormalities associated with aortic valve diseases?

• 2. Can the simulation model replicate the dynamics of a transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) procedure, including access routes and deployment of the prosthetic valve? How does the Aortic Arc model account for factors like patient-specific anatomy and comorbidities in treatment planning?

Radial Arteries

• 1. Can the simulation model differentiate between various radial artery pathologies based on imaging features, aiding in accurate and efficient diagnosis?

• 2. Do the Radial Artery Simulation Models include scenarios to stimulate potential complications during radial artery interventions such as dissection, perforation, and distal embolization?

• 3. How does the Radial Artery simulation model simulate traumatic injuries to the radial artery, and can it replicate scenarios involving fractures or dislocations that may impact the vessel? Can the simulation assist in practicing techniques for managing bleeding, hematoma formation, or complete disruption of the radial artery due to trauma?

Consumables

Blood and Contrast Fluids

Storing and Packaging Instructions:

• 1. Are there any specific instructions for storing the blood and contrast fluids when not in use with the Endovascular simulator?

Use Instructions:

• 2. Can the blood and contrast fluids be reused for multiple training sessions, or must fresh fluids be used each time?

• 3. How often do the blood and contrast fluids need to be replenished during a training session, and is this a time-consuming process?

• 4. Are there any risks of using blood and contrast fluids, such as infection or allergic reactions?

Cost of Fluids:

• 5. How does the cost of blood and contrast fluids compare to other supplies needed for endovascular model training, such as surgical instruments or the simulator?

Disposal and Maintenance:

• 6. Does the endovascular simulator have a built-in system for managing and disposing of used fluids, or is it necessary to drain and dispose of the liquids manually?

• 7. Are there any maintenance requirements for the Endovascular simulator related to fluids, such as cleaning or filter replacement?

• 8. Can different types of blood and contrast fluids be used with the Endovascular simulator, and how does this affect the training experience?

• 9. Is it possible to adjust the viscosity or color of the blood and contrast fluids to simulate different scenarios or conditions?

• 10. How does using blood and contrast fluids on the simulator compare to other training methods?

Use of Fluid with other medical devices:

• 11. Can the blood and contrast fluids be used with other medical simulation models or devices, or are they specific to the simulator?

Disposal and Maintenance:

• 12. Is there a specific method for disposing of used blood and contrast fluids, and are there any environmental or safety concerns related to this process?

• 13. Can the blood and contrast fluids be easily transported or stored, and what are the recommendations for doing so?

Use of Fluids:

• 14. Ethical Considerations for Using Blood and Contrast Fluids

• 15. Customization of Simulator's Use of Blood and Contrast Fluids

Watching our Interventional Radiology Tutorials

• 1. Accessing Tutorials and Guidance

• 2. Additional Tutorials on Using the System