Abstract
Background
Ultrasound for the evaluation of pneumothoraces has been extensively studied. Several
medical specialties have recognized the benefit of this technique; however, a training
model has not been established.
Objective
Using a porcine model, we attempt to establish a model for the training of ultrasound
diagnosis of pneumothoraces.
Methods
Two pigs were anesthetized on two separate occasions. A pneumothorax was introduced
each time. Participants were blinded to the study design and were not aware of the
number of pneumothoraces present. A brief training lecture was given before performing
the ultrasound, and the results of each lung examination were recorded. The data were
collected and analyzed for the accuracy of assessment.
Results
A total of 18 individuals participated in the study, with six individuals participating
on both days. Ninety-six lung ultrasound examinations were completed; 69% of the lung
examinations were correctly diagnosed on the first day and 94% on the second. Participants
correctly diagnosed a pneumothorax 50% of the time at the first laboratory and 100%
of the time at the second. Participants who attended both laboratories increased their
ability to diagnose a pneumothorax from 66% to 100%.
Conclusion
We believe this porcine model can be used for the training of ultrasound diagnosis
of pneumothoraces. Participants who completed two training sessions improved their
accuracy from 66% to 100% in the diagnosis of pneumothoraces. Study participants rated
the educational experience highly on a post-laboratory questionnaire, and feel they
will be more comfortable using it in a real-life situation.
Keywords
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Article info
Publication history
Published online: July 12, 2010
Accepted:
May 2,
2010
Received in revised form:
February 1,
2010
Received:
September 29,
2009
Identification
Copyright
© 2011 Elsevier Inc. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
