Custom Sclerotherapy Injection Training Model
HELP THE PHYSICIANS HELP THEIR PATIENTS
The Challenge:
A pharmaceutical company that specializes in the treatment of spider and reticular veins contacted us. They wanted a way to train clinicians without using live patients. Their vision was to create a clinical training model for injecting sclerosing agents in vessels from 0.25mm to 3mm, (.009-.118”) in a physician’s office, clinic or hospital. Proper needle positioning technique was the part of the procedure most critical to the success of the training. The vessels, “must be extremely shallow to accurately teach the technique of access” and achieve the realism of a live patient.
Model Definition:
In order to visualize the successful targeting and administering of the sclerosing agent, Pulse MDM planned to make the simulated skin translucent and the inject the vessels with contrasting blue pigmented water to represent the affected vein. When successfully administered the clinician would be able to see the clear fluid “chasing away” the blue pigment signifying the closing of the vessel for a satisfying “Ah-Ha” moment.
Model Design:
Knowing that the simulated vessels would be punctured repeatedly and require replacement, Pulse MDM designed a 2-sided model to double the longevity of the model. Each side of the model held 18 micro-vessels for a total of 32 vessels. Pulse MDM had to solve the manufacturing challenges of the extremely tiny and shallow vessels.
Model Development:
Pulse MDM began the project by creating abbreviated test models to submit to the client medical director for evaluation and feedback. Several iterations were required to refine a manufacturing method that would allow for vessels that are smaller than a strand of hair. The client asked that the tissue plate be rounded like a patient’s leg. The more clinically accurate scenario was complicated by needing to execute the tiny vessels in a curved shape. With some clever thinking Pulse MDM designed a curved base for the tissue block to bend over. This choice required a less complicated manufacturing process, making the production units much more economical.
Model Production:
A life-like sclerotherapy trainer was born. Pulse MDM crafted a professional all-inclusive kit with everything our client needed to do the training. Included in each kit is the clinically accurate vessel model, pre-filled sclerosing syringes, and tablets of dye to provide the vessel contrast. Compact & portable now physician training can be done in any setting, and in any location. The added benefit of creating a custom model is that you can include logos/branding and colors that are totally congruent with marketing. A professionally made custom model shows clinicians that the medical device manufacturer is committed to the highest level of training and customer success.
Model Benefit:
The Pulse MDM sclerotherapy model is used by our clients’ marketing team for sales and clinical training to increase surgeon trial. Through repeat practice physicians can achieve mastery which will ultimately increase procedure and product adoption.
Although this custom model is not available for sale to the public, we are delighted to make you a version that is specific to your unique medical device and procedure. Please use this link to start the process of receiving a model concept; a visual representation of how clinicians and patients will experience your product and procedure. Pulse MDM does not charge for model concepts or the conversations around them so there is no risk to see how we can help you to tell your story in the most engaging and memorable way possible.
Procedure Overview:
Sclerotherapy is the minimally invasive treatment of varicose and spider veins, often in the lower extremities. It is the preferred treatment of choice for small varicose veins that are closer to the surface of the skin, and can appear red, purple, or blue. By injecting sclerosing agents of directly into the damaged vein, the solution causes the walls of the injected vein to seal shut forcing blood to reroute through healthier veins. Over time the collapsed vein is reabsorbed into local tissue and it becomes less visible.