Simulators for aortic dissection diagnosis are limited by complex anatomy influencing the accuracy of point-of-care ultrasound for diagnosing aortic dissection. Therefore, this study aimed to create a healthy ascending aorta and class DeBakey, type II aortic dissection simulator as a potential point-of-care ultrasound training model.
3D mould simulators were created based on computed tomography images of one healthy and one DeBakey type II aortic dissection patient. In the next step, two polyvinyl alcohol-based and two silicone-based simulators were synthesised.
The results of the scanning electron microscope assessment showed an aortic dissection simulator’s surface with disorganised surface texture and higher root mean square (RMS or Rq) value than the healthy model of polyvinyl alcohol (
The simulators were able to replicate the surface morphology and echogenicity of the intimal flap, which is a linear hyperechoic area representing the separation of the aorta wall.