Layered Anatomical Head Model for Injection Training
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current teaching aids for injection techniques are inadequate for training physicians on the complex anatomy of the torso, face, and head, as they fail to accurately model the anatomy and simulate the feel and contours of these areas, leading to potential complications such as internal bleeding or suboptimal injection placement.
Innovation Solution
An anatomical model assembly of the human head with a layered construction, featuring a bone base, a muscle mask that mimics the suppleness of muscle, and a skin mask that mimics the elasticity and contours of real skin, allowing for precise practice of injections and surgical procedures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If flat simulated skin trays are used for injection practice, then physicians can practice injection techniques, but the device fails to teach how to deal with the contours of the face or the anatomy present below the skin
Solution Approach 1:
The anatomical model is divided into multiple layers: a base layer representing the skull, a middle layer representing subcutaneous tissue and muscles, and an outer layer representing skin. Each layer can be separately manufactured and assembled, allowing complex anatomical structures to be built from simpler components while maintaining overall anatomical accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from flat, two-dimensional simulated skin trays to a three-dimensional anatomical model that replicates the actual contours and depth of facial structures. This dimensional enhancement allows physicians to practice injections on a model that accurately represents the spatial relationships between skin surface and underlying anatomy.
2Reliability
If cadavers are used for practice, then physicians can learn injection techniques, but the cadaver lacks the skin resiliency and muscle suppleness of living tissue
Solution Approach 1:
The simulated tissues are engineered to match the physical parameters of living human tissue, including elasticity, tensile strength, and viscosity. The material composition and structural properties are specifically designed to replicate how real skin and muscle respond to needle insertion, allowing physicians to practice with tissue that behaves like living tissue without using actual human remains.
3Ease of manufacture
If simple dummies with organ location maps are used, then basic training can be provided, but the device does not accurately model the anatomy or simulate the feel of real tissue
Solution Approach 1:
The invention creates a physical copy of human facial anatomy that replicates both the external contours and internal structures. Rather than using simplified diagrams or maps, the model directly copies the three-dimensional anatomy of the face, including the positions of nerves, blood vessels, muscles, and bone, providing a realistic training tool that maintains anatomical accuracy.
4Productivity
If physicians learn by trial and error on real patients, then practical experience is gained, but patient safety is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The anatomical model serves as an intermediary training tool that allows physicians to practice injection techniques without directly working on real patients. The model provides a safe environment where mistakes can be made and learned from, while the same training principles can later be applied to actual patients with reduced risk.
Data Source
AI summary
An anatomical model assembly of the human head for use in teaching medical personnel. The anatomical model has an inner base that is shaped as part of the human skull. A first layer of material covers the base. The first layer of material provides a visual indication of at least some muscle groups contained within a human head. A second layer of material is provided that covers the first layer. The second layer of material has an exterior that is shaped with at least some human facial features. The second layer of material and the first layer of material are separate, unattached layers. The material selected for the first layer mimics the suppleness of muscle. The material selected for the top second layer mimics the feel and elasticity of skin. The result is an anatomical model that can be used to accurately teach, plan and practice medical procedures.