May 2, 2013 — Simbionix USA Corp. released various training modules for the Angio Mentor endovascular simulator.
The Simbionix Angio Mentor is a virtual reality-training simulator, providing hands-on practice in a simulated environment for endovascular procedures. This multidisciplinary system provides a training solution for a variety of procedures. An ever-expanding library of modules supports the acquisition and honing of essential skills to build confidence and proficiency in endovascular techniques and procedures.
Teaching endovascular basic skills requires a teaching physician's time and attention, and may be unsafe if performed on a live patient. The first set of the new Angio Mentor modules is intended for novice physicians to acquire necessary fundamental skills both for basic level wire-catheter, and core electrophysiology skills. These modules are set in a game-like environment and will allow training in a user friendly, enjoyable and safe setting. For the first time physicians will have the opportunity to learn and practice in both non-anatomic and on an anatomical vascular model, in an interactive challenging setting.
The next set of modules is for practicing procedures for the treatment of structural heart diseases. These are demanding and complicated procedures, involving innovative technologies, which need to be learned in depth. One of the features of these modules is that they provide much needed practice in the introduction and interpretation of live echo, using both intra-cardiac echo (ICE) and transesophageal echo (TEE). The procedures covered are atrial septal defect (ASD)/patent foramen ovale (ASD) closure, left atrial appendage (LAA) closure, transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) and transseptal puncture.
Simbionix is also introducing self-guided cases for LAA closure and transseptal puncture, in which the cardiologist/electrophysiologist may learn how to perform the procedure using the module's step-by-step real time instructions, visual aids and live procedure videos.
"We are maintaining our commitment and investment in the continuous education for endovascular surgeons in all phases of their career, from learning basic and fundamental skills through complicated and high risk procedures," said Inbal Mazor, Simbionix VP of global marketing. "Working hand-in-hand with the medical community and the medical device industry has helped us better understand the need to provide a cutting edge training experience within our simulation platform. These unique new modules join the ever-growing library of training modules being developed for the Angio Mentor, aimed to support the fast developments in the field of vascular interventions."
Experience the latest additions to the Angio Mentor at one of the following events during SCAI, May 8-11 in Orlando, Fla.; HRS, May 8-11 in Denver, Colo.; ESVB, May 10-11, France; and EuroPCR, May 21-24, France.
For more information: www.simbionix.com