Realistic and inexpensive ultrasound phantoms to demonstrate aortic aneurysm and aortic dissection

Introduction: Using ultrasound to evaluate for the presence of aortic pathology is a common procedure in the emergency department. Phantoms are models that are used to simulate clinical conditions for teaching ultrasound-related skills. To date, no ‘homemade’ phantom has been created to model aortic aneurysms, and no phantoms exist to model aortic dissection. Methods: We used several readily available, inexpensive ingredients to create ultrasound phantoms. Results: These phantoms realistically mimic aortic aneurysm and aortic dissection. Discussion: These are the first ‘homemade’ phantoms that demonstrate aortic pathology. Conclusions: We have created realistic, affordable, easily reproducible phantoms for use in teaching clinicians to use ultrasound when evaluating patients for aortic aneurysm and/or aortic dissection.