Human upper limbs and low‑cost phantom models for ultrasound‑guided learning of peripheral vascular access.

BACKGROUND: Clinical ultrasound has become a core competency for 21st-century physicians, offering real-time diagnostic support. Its integration into early undergraduate medical curricula is progressively increasing. This study presents a strategy developed by our teaching group and evaluates its satisfaction and feasibility in an early clinical ultrasound training intervention METHODS: To assess the educational impact of ultrasound training and needle aspiration, we developed several self-designed models. A group of second-year medical students participated in an ultrasound assisted practical lesson using these models. We prepared specialised practical lessons focused on ultrasound-guided vessels puncture using low-cost ballistic gel models. Additionally, dissected human upper limbs were used to cannulated brachial arteries and guide vascular puncture skills. A questionnaire measuring student satisfaction, perceived utility, and timing of the training was designed to quantify its significance.

RESULTS: Students highly appreciated the early approach to ultrasonography learning and demonstrate significant anatomical knowledge acquisition. The ballistic gel models surpassed commercial simulators in usability and image quality and were rated as more comfortable for learning. Nevertheless, the human model received the highest student scores.

CONCLUSIONS: We present several models to increase ultrasound skills in medical students. These models were experienced as a useful and realistic practice compared to commercial alternatives. Their ease of creation and anatomical fidelity combined with low-cost make them valuable tools. Furthermore, the designed human upper limb model proved improving students´ satisfaction and the ultrasound-guided vascular approach.