PHANTOM DEVELOPMENT FOR DIAGNOSIS OF VENOUS THROMBOEMBOLISM

Abstract

Venous thromboembolic disease (VTD) is a highly serious and lethal pathology that consists of the initial formation of a thrombus composed of platelets and fibrin inside the venous system. This disease can manifest itself in two ways, deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which occurs when the clot originates in a deep vein, and pulmonary embolism (PE), which occurs when the thrombus breaks off and advances in the direction of blood flow, eventually reaching the lung.

Compression ultrasonography (CUS) is the diagnostic test of choice in patients with suspected DVT. However, this technique requires specialized training, and unfortunately, Hospital Universitario La Paz (HULP) lacks affordable simulators that would allow hospital staff to gain this essential experience. This work aims to overcome that limitation by developing a realistic and low-cost DVT simulator designed for medical training using ultrasound (US) scanning.

The acquisition of an axial computed tomography (CT) scan of the patient served as the basis for the subsequent computer-aided design (CAD) process for creating the pieces and molds that would shape the simulator. Subsequently, 3D printing and filling of those molds took place, along with some additional modifications, such as the inclusion of blood flow, resulting in the final simulator. The developed phantom has been clinically validated through surveys answered by professionals from HULP, who confirmed its effectiveness and realism.

This work has demonstrated that it is possible to create a cost-effective, realistic leg simulator aimed at improving training for professionals in the detection of DVT using US, while also enhancing accessibility and affordability in medical education, reducing the need for more invasive diagnostic techniques and the costs of misdiagnosis, and improving the quality of life for patients affected by this condition.