Introduction: We present a novel and cost effective technique for developing a custom made model of homemade ballistics gel that can be used for teaching, testing and practicing placement of external ventricular drains.
Methods: A 3D ventricular model was generated and printed based on the average measurements from 10 consecutive normal MRIs. The 3D model was bisected in the mid-sagittal plane and secured to a piece of plastic to serve as the lid to the brain mold. An anatomically correct skull was also separated in the mid-sagittal plane to create the bases for the molds. A recipe for homemade ballistics gel was followed. A solution of 1oz gelatin powder for every 8oz of water is heated over a medium until liquefied, then refrigerate until solid. The solid is then reheated a second time to remove any trapped air and then poured into the two hemisphere molds and the appropriate halved ventricular molds are secured on top in correct anatomical position. After cooling, the gelatin models can be removed from the molds and secured into an intact upright model skull to be used.
Results: The final product is fairly inexpensive and easy to make. The model is an ideal medium for teaching,practicing,and experimenting with EVD placement. It is soft enough to pass an catheter through, but also firm enough to maintain its shape including a cavity representing the lateral ventricles. The dense gelatin holds the catheter into its final resting position while the two halves are separated and inspected. Users can easily identify whether they successfully hit the target and measure and record distance from the target.
Conclusions: This model is easy to replicate, relatively inexpensive, anatomically accurate, and provides a medium for neurosurgeons to teach and practice ventricular catheter placement in a risk free environment.
Patient Care: This model can be used to teach and study methods to improve ventricular catheter placement.
We are using this model to study the outcomes of placing ventricular catheters with augmented reality
Learning Objectives: After Reviewing this poster participants will be able to create an experimental model for teaching, practicing, and studying ventriculostomy catheter placement