Neonatal Anatomical Model for Chest Tube Placement Training

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing training models for medical procedures, particularly in neonatology, lack anatomically correct and operable simulated organs or structures, failing to adequately simulate conditions such as pneumothorax and pleural effusions, which are critical for training healthcare providers to perform thoracostomy tube insertion safely.

Innovation Solution

An anatomically correct model is developed, including a thorax with ribs, a heart surrounded by a pericardial sac, lungs, and membranous layers mimicking human tissue, allowing simulation of conditions like pneumothorax and pleural effusions, enabling training in procedures like chest tube placement and pericardiocentesis.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If existing training models are used, then training can be conducted, but the models lack anatomically correct and operable simulated organs or structures, making it impossible to adequately train medical professionals

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetraining effectivenessVSAvoidanatomical structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The training model is divided into multiple anatomical components including a thorax with ribs, a heart within a pericardial sac, lungs, and membranous layers. Each component can be independently constructed and assembled, allowing for anatomical accuracy while maintaining manufacturing feasibility through modular production

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The model employs nested anatomical structures where the heart is positioned within the pericardial sac, which is itself contained within the thorax. The lungs are positioned within the thoracic cavity surrounded by ribs and membranous layers. This nesting arrangement replicates真实 anatomical relationships and enables comprehensive procedural training

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Reliability

If simulation training is implemented, then technical proficiencies can be improved, but existing models cannot simulate removal of gas and fluid from a subject

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprocedural training accuracyVSAvoidsimulation capability
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The model incorporates pneumatic and hydraulic systems to simulate the removal of gas and fluid from the subject. The thorax can be filled with gas to simulate pneumothorax, and fluid to simulate pleural effusion. Drainage procedures can be practiced by removing these simulated fluids and gases, enabling comprehensive training for thoracostomy and other drainage procedures

Inventive Principle:
Principle #29Pneumatics and hydraulics

Solution Approach 2:

The model is pre-configured with simulated pathological conditions including gas-filled chambers to represent pneumothorax and fluid-filled chambers to represent pleural effusion. Trainees can practice recognition and treatment of these pre-established conditions, enabling rehearsal of critical procedures before actual clinical application

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Reliability

If chest tube placement training is provided, then life-saving skills can be developed, but complications such as malposition, lung impalement, and cardiac perforation can still occur during actual procedures

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprocedure safetyVSAvoidtraining accessibility
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The model creates a realistic copy of human anatomy with accurate spatial relationships between critical structures. The heart is positioned within the pericardial sac at appropriate depth, lungs are positioned with correct morphology, and ribs provide accurate anatomical landmarks. This realistic copying allows trainees to practice procedures on a model that replicates true anatomical challenges without actual patient risk

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The model provides a safe training environment where potential procedural errors such as malposition, lung impalement, and cardiac perforation can occur without harmful consequences. Trainees can repeatedly practice and learn from mistakes in this protected setting, developing muscle memory and procedural competence before performing procedures on actual patients

Inventive Principle:
Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

Data Source

PatentUS20250279013A1Training model for medical applications
Publication Date: 2025.09.04 THE RES FOUNDATION FOR THE STATE UNIV OF NEW YORK
  • US20250279013A1 patent drawing
  • US20250279013A1 patent drawing
  • US20250279013A1 patent drawing

AI summary

The present disclosure is directed to an anatomical model and methods for using the same. The anatomical model of the present disclosure includes a plurality of simulated bodily structures that emulate the naturally occurring structures (e.g., organs, bones, and tissue) of the human body. The anatomical model of the present disclosure can be used to simulate clinical conditions observed in infant subjects and carry out medical procedures and interventions commonly practiced by clinicians under real-life conditions.