Universal Maternal Abdomen 

 

The Universal Maternal Abdomen has been specifically developed to simulate a variety of in utero procedures for both single and twin pregnancies. A series of fetal scenarios have been designed to fit into this maternal abdomen. These scenarios include:

 

-Twin to Twin Transfusion (TTTS) - posterior and anterior positions

-Fetal Endoscopic Tracheal Occlusion (FETO)

-Fetal Pleural Shunt Insertion

-Fetoscopic Cord Occlusion

-Amniocentesis

-Experimental Spina Bifida Repair

 

Each of the components (listed above) are custom manufactured from the highest quality silicone and plastic materials and have been engineered to optimally function within this specific maternal abdomen. 

 

In order to facilitate both single and twin pregnancies, the maternal abdomen comes complete with a removable liner/insert that converts the larger amniotic volume (twins) to a smaller volume (single fetus) by raising the posterior plane and lowering the fundal height. A series of laparoscopic ports have been incorporated into the surface of the abdomen. The placement, size (5-12mm dia.), and quantity of the ports can be modified depending upon your individual needs. The abdominal surface can also be manufactured with no ports. 

 

The abdominal wall of this model is designed to support ultrasound guided procedures,* including amniocentesis with a 20-gauge needle and fetal pleural shunt insertions. The material of the abdominal wall will reseal after repeated punctures.**

 

This unique simulation environment is the only one of its kind in the world, thanks to the guidance and medical expertise of Dr. Rory Windrim, Dr. Greg Ryan and Dr. Tim Van Mieghem (Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto). Additional contributions and medical expertise were provided by Dr. Dick Oepkes (Leiden University Medical Centre), Dr. Jan Deprest (University of Leuven, Belgium), Dr. Richard Pittini (Sunnybrook Hospital Toronto) and Dr. Anthony Johnson (Children's Memorial Hermann Hospital Houston).  

 

The initial version of this model was used in a clinical trial that was published in the medical journal: Ultrasound in Obstetrics & Gynecology, Volume 19, Issue 5, pages 478–483, 1 May 2002. This research publication, “Teaching Invasive Perinatal Procedures: Assessment of a High Fidelity Simulator-Based Curriculum” can be viewed at: (click here)

 

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*Please note that the ultrasound visualization quality on this model is basic and some visual artifacts may be visible. 

 

**Light needle tracks may remain after the needle has been removed.