Training on ANGIO Mentor Simulator Helped Introduce TAVI Technology to Physicians Worldwide
 The Challenge

Since 2007, experienced European interventional cardiologists required training to perform the transcatheter aortic valve implantation procedure, which for many was a procedure they had not performed previously.

Over the last 10 years, the transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) procedure has been approved and embraced worldwide with a rapid increase in the number of procedures performed. The valve went through an evolution including new delivery systems, approach sites (subclavian and aortic), sizes, patients (intermediate risk, valve-in-valve) and newer-generation valves that allow for re-sheathing and repositioning. These changes required ongoing training of physicians.

The Solution

In 2008, simulation training software on the ANGIO Mentor simulator was developed, as well as a replica of the deployment handle for physicians to see and experience the TAVI procedure for the first time.

The simulation includes various scenarios that address different complications that may occur during the procedure such as bioprosthesis pop-out, pericardial effusion, low valve deployment and more. The simulated case is completed with a performance summary that shows the trainee and instructor the results of the simulation.

Cardiologists or cardiac surgeons and their teams who wish to conduct TAVI with certain TAVI technology in their centers, go through structured training, which includes training on the ANGIO Mentor simulator.

The portable ANGIO Mentor (ANGIO Mentor Flex) is also used to provide Cardiovascular teams a refresher course in their hospital, in case significant time has passed between the course and their first TAVI.

The Advantage

There are many benefits to simulation: repeated use of the device and tools to increase familiarity and understanding, learning in a quiet and safe environment with the ability to pause at any time to discuss options and explain details, as well as simulate complications and less common medical situations to learn the correct reaction to those situations. The use of the virtual reality simulation of the complex TAVI procedure on the ANGIO Mentor simulator is an important step in optimizing the training of physicians in this technical procedure.

Prof. Haim Danenberg, Head of Interventional Cardiology, Hadassah Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel, maintains that simulation contributes greatly to the physician and ultimately to clinical outcomes.  “Simulation training on ANGIO Mentor helps us achieve better result. It allows us to repeat and learn well all procedural steps; knowing what to do reduces the number and complexity of complications. Simbionix simulation from 3D Systems brings us to the 'battle field', allowing us to be ready and able to perform a safe and effective procedure."

Watch the webinar: “The revolution and evolution of TAVI” showing TAVI simulation on ANGIO Mentor.