Abstract
The establishment of new surgical methods and techniques is associated with a learning curve which can lead to a higher morbidity and mortality for patients during training. To counteract this problem, within the framework of surgical and endovascular training and to transfer the learning curve from the patients to the simulator, life-like models are used and tested. The benefits of such simulator training have been shown in multiple disciplines. This article presents the steps from the conception to the production and validation of a simulator for ultrasound-guided arterial and venous puncture. The goal was to develop a cost-efficient high-fidelity simulator that enables ultrasound-guided percutaneous vascular puncture, direct haptic and visual feedback and the use of some percutaneous devices in a manner as complete and life-like as possible. The finished prototype enables an ultrasound-guided puncture of arteries and veins and the model enables the deployment of endovascular devices and closure systems. To be able to provide and carry out a structured training removed from external influences and challenges is in the interest of clinical departments, trainees and ultimately patient safety. Simulation training on life-like models can provide a valuable contribution in this context and represents a welcome supplement to traditional clinical training.