A medical simulation is a fundamental tool for procedural training and assessment. Procedural simulation has advanced trainees’ abilities and skills without increasing patient risk [1]. This article demonstrates a step-by-step creation of an inexpensive lumbar spine phantom for fluoroscopically guided lumbar puncture (LP) and the usefulness of this model for radiology training. The phantom model targets Radiology trainees with limited experience performing LP for simulated procedures to gain confidence before starting patient procedures.

Four packs of medical gelatin and lumbar spine skeleton were purchased online. Then the spinal cord from the skeleton was removed and inserted into a condom filled with water to simulate the thecal sac. Silicone skin also was used for the outer skin. Subsequently, the gel was cut up, heated in a pot in the oven at about 120-130 degrees Celsius and the liquid gel was poured into a tray. A wooden wedge was placed in the tray before pouring the gel to make the...

The phantom model was found relatively durable without loss of function or noticeable functional wear whilst used for numerous training activities by residents [3]. Surveys from residents in training indicated that the phantom model simulated the texture and resistance of human soft tissue reasonably well for clinical training [1].

Recent research has confirmed the use of these Phantom models in simulation education [2, 6]. This novel, inexpensive spine phantom offers reasonable visual and tactile agreement to human anatomy and has helped improve physician trainees' confidence [1, 2, 3, & 4]. The LP phantom is durable and inexpensive, with increased interest to be used in simulation education in the training program. This simulation-based medical education provides the opportunity to learn without exposing patients to harm. [5]

References: 1. Lerner, D. J., Gifford, S. E., Olafsen, N., Mileto, A., & Soloff, E. (2020). Lumbar Puncture: Creation and Resident Acceptance of a Low-Cost, Durable, Reusable Fluoroscopic Phantom with a Fluid-Filled Spinal Canal for Training at an Academic Program. American Journal of Neuroradiology,41(3), 548-550. 2. Riutort, K. T., Clifton, W., Damon, A., Dove, C., & Clendenen, S. R. (2019). Construction of an affordable lumbar neuraxial block model using 3D printed materials. Cureus,11(10). 3. Faulkner, A. R., Bourgeois, A. C., Bradley, Y. C., & Pasciak,...