Importance and potential of simulation training in interventional radiology

Abstract

Background Simulation training is a common method in many medical disciplines and is used to teach content knowledge, manual skills, and team skills without potential patient danger. Methods Simulation models and methods in interventional radiology are explained. Strengths and weaknesses of both simulators for non-vascular and vascular radiological interventions are highlighted and necessary future developments are addressed. Results Both custom-made and commercially available phantoms are available for non-vascular interventions. Interventions are performed under ultrasound guidance, with computed tomography assistance, or using mixed-reality methods. The wear and tear of physical phantoms can be countered with in-house production of 3D-printed models. Vascular interventions can be trained on silicone models or hightech simulators. Increasingly, patient-specific anatomies are replicated and simulated pre-intervention. The level of evidence of all procedures is low. Conclusion Numerous simulation methods are available in interventional radiology. Training on silicone models and hightech simulators for vascular interventions has the potential to reduce procedural time. This is associated with reduced radiation dose for both patient and physician, which can also contribute to improved patient outcome, at least in endovascular stroke treatment. Although a higher level of evidence should be achieved, simulation training should already be integrated into the guidelines of the professional societies and accordingly into the curricula of the radiology departments. Key Points:  Citation Format