Abstract: This invention relates to a computer-implemented simulation system comprising a needle device having a retractable needle shaft comprising a resistance mechanism which can be activated to vary the resistance of the needle shaft. A processing module is configured to: receive ultrasound image data representative of a subject being scanned, receive position and orientation data representative of an ultrasound probe and a needle device, calculate a projected path for the needle device and generate a simulation needle from the projected path. When the simulation needle is determined to intersect with an identified tissue type, it modulates a signal and sends the modulated signal to the resistance mechanism, thereby to cause a change in the resistive force acting on the retractable needle shaft. The invention also relates to a computer-implemented method for simulating ultrasound guided needling using this system.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a computer-implemented simulation system comprising a needle device having a retractable needle shaft comprising a resistance mechanism which can be activated to vary the resistance of the needle shaft, an ultrasound probe configured to transmit an ultrasound beam, a display unit and a processing module. The invention disclosure also relates to a computer-implemented method for simulating ultrasound guided needling using this system.