June 2, 2014 — As more endovascular medical programs adapt simulation as an essential part of their training curriculum, there is a constant and consistent need for updated simulation solutions. Simbionix is offering two new platforms and two training modules, to enhance hands-on training for more clinicians to enhance patient safety and improve clinical outcomes.
Simbionix training solutions for endovascular training, The ANGIO Mentor family of products, provide simulation platforms on which endovascular skills and complete procedures can be practiced.
The ANGIO Mentor Flex is an ultra-portable training solution that provides realistic simulation and tactile feeling of an actual procedure. Packed in a case, it can be checked-in as luggage on flights within airline weight restrictions. Its compact design and quick setup makes this platform ideal for remote meetings.
The new portable platform joins the recently released ANGIO Mentor Suite stationary platform, which includes a realistic human patient mannequin with five access points, ergonomic settings and large monitor to allow real life settings for interventional team training.
The ANGIO Mentor Flex and the ANGIO Mentor Suite are fully backward compatible. The entire library can be operated on either system including 19 different procedure modules, each offering a variety of training scenarios.
On top on these new platforms, Simbionix is introducing two new advanced applications, the Transradial Coronary Intervention Module and Transseptal Puncture Module with echocardiography.
Due to the increasing popularity and safety of the transradial approach and the large number of practicing physicians not yet trained in transradial catheterization, there is much interest in the use of simulation for this method.
These procedures require a skill set distinct from trans-femoral procedures, with a steep learning curve associated with the technique.
The transradial coronary intervention module presents a variety of challenging anatomies and scenarios for coronary angiography and intervention using the transradial approach, such as tortuous subclavian, brachial loop, CABG and more. The module trains clinicians in appropriate equipment selection and techniques as well as negotiating complications, such as spasm and perforation.
Transseptal puncture is required for advanced cardiac procedures and is considered a highly demanded skill. Using echocardiography guidance for transseptal puncture allows better visualization of heart structures and reduces complication rates.
The transseptal puncture module allows learners to practice left atrial access by puncturing the intra-atrial septum. During the simulation, life-threatening complications such as cardiac tamponade or aortic puncture may occur.
The Simbionix transseptal puncture module is the only available module that includes real time ICE (intracardiac echocardiography) simulation. Cardiologists learn how to maneuver an ICE catheter and interpret the echocardiographic image. The module also includes TEE (transesophageal echocardiography) simulation.
"Simbionix incorporates the complete procedure environment into its products, to ensure a true-to-life experience both in terms of performing specific procedures and the settings in which they are performed," said Ran Bronstein, Simbionix president and COO. "All software modules can be used in any of the hardware configurations, allowing our clients maximum flexibility in terms of cost and capabilities."
For more information: www.simbionix.com