Abstract: Mitigating the reality gap through training and utilization of at least one difference model. The difference model can be utilized to generate, for each of a plurality of instances of simulated state data generated by a robotic simulator, a corresponding instance of modified simulated state data. The difference model is trained so that a generated modified instance of simulated state data is closer to “real world data” than is a corresponding initial instance of simulated state data. Accordingly, the difference model can be utilized to mitigate the reality gap through modification of initially generated simulated state data, to make it more accurately reflect what would occur in a real environment. Moreover, the difference representation from the difference model can be used as input to the control policy to adapt the control learned from simulator to the real environment.

Abstract: An airway simulation system includes a simulated airway having a hollow body defining a passageway therein with a first portion and a second portion. The second portion includes a bifurcated section having a left branch section and a right branch section and connects to the first portion at the distal end of the first portion. The simulated airway includes at least one orifice defined along the hollow body and in communication with at least one pressure transducer. One branch of the left branch section and the right branch section is configured to receive airflow from a distal end, and the other of the left branch section and the right branched section includes a cap at a distal end to prevent airflow from being received by the distal end of the capped branch. A method for simulating a human airway is also disclosed.

Abstract: Implementations relate to anatomical models and surgical training. In some implementations, an anatomical training model includes a base portion and a top portion that form a hollow space between the base portion and top portion. A plurality of holes are positioned in the top portion. The model includes a plurality of cannula supports, where each cannula support is aligned with one or more corresponding holes in the top portion.

Abstract: A vessel network mesh and a tool mesh can be created for every frame of the gaming application. The simulated fluoroscopic x-ray image can be rendered using vessel network meshes and a pixel shader.

Abstract: A neck mechanism for a mannequin comprises three or more joint units serially connected to provide joints for three or more rotational degrees of freedom (DOF). A rotational axis of a first DOF is configured to be aligned with a lateral axis of the mannequin. A rotational axis of a second DOF is configured to be aligned with an anterior-posterior axis of the mannequin. A rotational axis of a third DOF is configured to be aligned with a cranial-caudal axis of the mannequin. A bottom one of the joint units is adapted to be connected to a torso of the mannequin, and a top one of the at least three joint units is adapted to be connected to a skull. The mannequin may also have a skull connected to the top one of the joint units, and a trunk connected to the bottom one of the joint units. A system for simulating cervical spine motions is also provided.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are systems and methods of generating traumatic brain injury. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to acoustic systems and methods for inflicting traumatic brain injury and developing an animal model of traumatic brain injury.

Abstract: Airway management virtual reality (VR) training systems and methods are provided, which use relatively simple and passive physical patient models to train users in performing airway management procedures. Patient models may include a respiratory tract, a moveable head and an openable jaw, which are anatomically realistic; and electromagnetic sensors that measure the movements of parts of the physical model and movement of tools used to handle the model. The parameters of the medical procedure being performed are sensed, tracked and displayed, providing the trainee with a continuous, detailed and coherent VR representation of the training situation in a realistic scene, utilizing and modifying a sensors' hierarchy to focus the VR representation on key features of the training and to yield interactivity of the VR patient and assessment of the trainee's performance.

Abstract: A renal hilum surgical simulation system is provided. The renal hilum surgical simulation system includes simulated tissue layers and simulated renal organs and/or vasculatures. The renal hilum surgical simulation system is adapted for but not limited to laparoscopic donor nephrectomy surgical procedures.

Abstract: In one aspect a laparoscopic training device is disclosed. The laparoscopic training device includes a base that forms a working surface. The laparoscopic training device includes a plurality of walls surrounding the base and defining an interior volume. The interior volume simulates a gynecological surgery environment. A training feature is attached to at least one of the plurality of walls and base. The training feature includes at least one training element for simulating a laparoscopic surgery technique.

Abstract: Airway management virtual reality (VR) training systems and methods are provided, which use relatively simple and passive physical patient models to train users in performing airway management procedures. Patient models may include a respiratory tract, a moveable head and an openable jaw, which are anatomically realistic; and electromagnetic sensors that measure the movements of parts of the physical model and movement of tools used to handle the model. The parameters of the medical procedure being performed are sensed, tracked and displayed, providing the trainee with a continuous, detailed and coherent VR representation of the training situation in a realistic scene, utilizing and modifying a sensors' hierarchy to focus the VR representation on key features of the training and to yield interactivity of the VR patient and assessment of the trainee's performance.

Abstract: Apparatus, systems, and methods according to which simulated thoracic, urinary, pulmonary, and/or capillary procedures may be performed.

Abstract: A dynamic bionic heart phantom is used for an MRI system, a control method and a testing method. The dynamic bionic heart phantom includes a bionic heart phantom, a control system, positive pressure devices and a negative pressure device; the bionic heart phantom includes a water tank and a heart phantom arranged in the water tank, and the heart phantom is connected to the control system through four air pipes; the control system includes an antimagnetic control device and a control PC, and the antimagnetic control device is composed of a measurement and control module, four proportional flow values, a power module and a magnetic shielding box; the positive pressure devices, including gas, gas cylinders and pressure reducing valves, are connected to two gas inlet interfaces of the control system respectively; and the negative pressure device includes a vacuum pump and a negative pressure container.

Abstract: A technique relates to coronary reconstruction. Angiogram data associated with cardiac catheterization of an artery for a subject is received, where a contrasting agent is used during the cardiac catheterization. Frames that match from the angiogram data are selected, the frames being from different views. Two-dimensional ordered point clouds for the frames are formed. A three-dimensional ordered point cloud of a reconstructed coronary artery for the subject from the two-dimensional ordered point clouds of the frames is formed. Observed contrast motion caused by the contrasting agent onto the reconstructed coronary artery is mapped, the reconstructed coronary artery thereby providing a three-dimensional model of the artery of the subject during the cardiac catheterization.

Abstract: A visualization apparatus detects a change in the shape of a solid model of a human body part based on images obtained by capturing the solid model. Next, the visualization apparatus generates a three-dimensional model reproducing the shape of the human body part in virtual space based on three-dimensional model data representing the shape of the human body part in three dimensions. The visualization apparatus further transforms the shape of the three-dimensional model into a transformed three-dimensional model in accordance with the change in the shape of the solid model. Then, the visualization apparatus outputs images of the transformed three-dimensional model.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are embodiments of a vessel cutdown simulant, and methods of making and using such a vessel cutdown simulant, whereby the vessel cutdown simulant includes a first layer; a second layer underlying the first layer, the second layer movably engaged with the first layer; a first conduit underlying the first layer; whereby the first layer, the second layer, and the first conduit together provide a simulated body tissue; and a housing including a side wall which defines an interior cavity configured to house the simulated body tissue.

Abstract: A medical tool insertion simulation apparatus. The medical tool insertion simulation apparatus may comprise a syringe having an injection end, and an elongated member protruding from the injection end of the syringe. The elongated member may be configured to decrease a length of protrusion of the elongated member from the injection end of the syringe. The elongated member may be configured to receive at least one first sensor configured to indicate position information relating to the elongated member. At least one computer-readable storage medium encoded with executable instructions that, when executed by at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to perform a method for simulating medical tool insertion. A medical tool insertion simulation system.

Abstract: Embodiments described herein provide various examples of synchronizing the playback of a recorded video of a surgical procedure with a live video feed of a user performing the surgical procedure. In one aspect, a system can simultaneously receive a recorded video of a surgical procedure and a live video feed of a user performing the surgical procedure in a training session. More specifically, the recorded video is shown to the user as a training reference, and the surgical procedure includes a set of surgical tasks. The system next simultaneously monitors the playback of a current surgical task in the set of surgical tasks in the recorded video and the live video feed depicting the user performing the current surgical task. Next, the system detects that the end of the current surgical task has been reached during the playback of the recorded video.

Abstract: Devices, systems, and methods appropriate for use in medical training that include materials that better mimic natural human tissue are disclosed. In one aspect, multi-layer tissue simulations are provided. In another aspect, male genitalia models are provided. In another aspect, abdominal surgical wall inserts are provided. Systems and methods associated with these devices are also provided.

Abstract: A simulated tissue structure for practicing surgical techniques is provided. In particular, a realistic organ model or tissue portion for practicing the removal of a tumor or other undesired tissue followed by suturing a remnant defect as part of the same surgical procedure is provided. The simulated tissue structure includes an artificial tumor disposed between layers of elastomeric material and mounted on a simulated organ wall or tissue portion. The simulated tissue structure is modular and interchangeable. At least one of the layers includes a mesh reinforcement. A defect comprising two juxtapositioned surfaces defining a gap between the surfaces is created in the simulated tissue structure and the trainee practices tumor removal and closure of the gap by suturing in a laparoscopic environment.

Abstract: Simulated tissue structures and methods of manufacturing are provided. The simulated tissue structures are particularly useful for placement inside abdominal simulators for practicing laparoscopic surgical techniques. One simulated tissue structure includes a combination of two materials that are attached together wherein one of the materials forms a hollow anatomical structure configured to contain the other material. The two materials are attached in an anatomically advantageous manner such that the inner surface of the outer material closely conforms to the outer surface of the inner material. Another simulated tissue structure includes a plurality of layers wherein at least one layer is applied by printing the layer with at least one stencil to impart one or more functional characteristic to the simulated tissue structure.

Abstract: A vasculature simulation device includes an aortic conduit having an inner bore corresponding to a human aorta, a first femoral conduit and a second femoral conduit having an inner bore of a diameter corresponding to a human femoral artery and disposed in fluid communication with the second end of the aortic conduit, and a return conduit in fluid receiving communication with the second end of the aortic conduit. A fluid pump is in fluid receiving communication with the return conduit and is also in fluid providing communication with the first end of the aortic conduit. An access site formed of a penetrable material is disposed adjacent to the first femoral conduit.

Abstract: An interactive augmented reality system for simulating medical procedures for pediatric disease education includes a plush toy having one or more patches disposed on a body of the plush toy in one or more corresponding locations each associated with an area of the body of the plush toy that is comparable to an area of a human body. An interactive medical procedure simulation logic section operable within a mobile device causes a particular patch within a series of live images to be scanned, and initiates an interactive augmented reality experience to simulate a medical procedure for pediatric disease education. Comfort is provided to children struggling with a disease. Children learn how to manage their chronic illness by enabling them to practice their medical procedures and receive feedback related to correct and incorrect care. A low-cost disease education delivery mechanism is provided directly to children through game-play.

Abstract: An inflatable exhibit of a heart includes an inflatable infrastructure inflatable to a three-dimensional partial representation of the heart at a scale greater than at least, 10:1, but more preferably greater than 20:1, and most preferably, greater than 25:1. The infrastructure includes a cross-sectional plane thereacross. The exhibit further includes a walk-through passageway defined, at least, in part by the inflated infrastructure, and extending through the inflated infrastructure. The cross-sectional plane defines a plane of the passageway.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a chest tube trainer model. Specifically exemplified is a an anatomical model for simulating at least a portion of a thorax that includes a rib portion removably secured to and supported by a base, the rib portion comprised in whole or in part of a hydrogel; and a securing member for holding the anatomical model onto a human; wherein the rib portion has a convex shape defining a space between the base and the rib portion, the space is adapted for receiving a bladder disposed between the rib portion and the base; and at least a portion of the base is formed from puncture resistant material.

Abstract: A surgical simulation system is provided. The system includes at least one simulated body organ placed upon the base of an organ tray and at least one covering layer placed over the simulated body organ. At least one of the simulated body organ and covering layer includes electro-conductive gel that is operably severable under application of electrical current to simulate electrosurgery in a training environment. The training environment comprises a top cover connected to and spaced apart from a base to define an internal cavity that is partially obstructed from direct observation by a practitioner. The tray, simulated body organs and covering layer are placed inside the internal cavity for the practice of laparoscopic surgical procedures.

Abstract: Described are biofidelic skin simulants closely mimicking the biomechanical properties of natural human skin, including vaginal skin tissue. The simulant contains a crosslinked siloxane network.

Abstract: Implementations relate to anatomical models and surgical training. In some implementations, an anatomical training model includes a base portion and a top portion that form a hollow space between the base portion and top portion. A plurality of holes are positioned in the top portion. The model includes a plurality of cannula supports, where each cannula support is aligned with one or more corresponding holes in the top portion.

Abstract: A limb and torso docking arrangement for a manikin comprising —a first connecting part for connection with a limb (30) of the manikin —a second connecting part for connection with a torso (not shown) of the manikin.

Abstract: Simulated tissue structures for practicing surgical techniques and methods of manufacturing those structures are provided. In particular, a realistic organ model or simulated tissue portion for practicing the removal of a tumor or other undesired tissue followed by suturing a remnant defect as part of the same surgical procedure is provided. The simulated tissue structures include a polyp simulation having a suturable mesh layer that is separable from a defect layer. A simulated colon model with interchangeable and suturable tissue pods is also provided as is a fully suturable rectum model and a rectum model with integrative suturable and removable polyp zones.

Abstract: Medical training and performance assessment instruments, methods, and systems are disclosed. Training and/or assessment systems may include an augmented medical instrument for use by a student to examine a patient. A system in accordance with one aspect of the invention includes a first augmented medical instrument configured to sense a first physical parameter during examination of a subject and produce a first examination data and a second augmented medical instrument configured to sense a second physical parameter during examination of the subject and produce a second examination data. The system is configured to generate at least one simulated physical parameter based on the first examination data and present the at least one simulated physical parameter to the student on the second augmented medical instrument.

Abstract: Embodiments described herein provide various examples of preparing two procedure videos, in particular two surgical procedure videos for comparative learning. In some embodiments, to allow comparative learning of two recorded surgical videos, each of the two recorded surgical videos is segmented into a sequence of predefined phases/steps. Next, corresponding phases/steps of the two segmented videos are individually time-synchronized in pair-wise manner so that a given phase/step of one recorded video and a corresponding phase/step of the other segmented video can have the same or substantially the same starting time and ending timing during comparative playbacks of the two recorded videos.

Abstract: Disclosed are synthetic tissue phantoms, which mimic the properties of real human or animal tissue, and methods of manufacturing the same.

Abstract: An interactive augmented reality system for simulating medical procedures for pediatric disease education includes a plush toy having one or more patches disposed on a body of the plush toy in one or more corresponding locations each associated with an area of the body of the plush toy that is comparable to an area of a human body. An interactive medical procedure simulation logic section operable within a mobile device causes a particular patch within a series of live images to be scanned, and initiates an interactive augmented reality experience to simulate a medical procedure for pediatric disease education. Comfort is provided to children struggling with a disease. Children learn how to manage their chronic illness by enabling them to practice their medical procedures and receive feedback related to correct and incorrect care. A low-cost disease education delivery mechanism is provided directly to children through game-play.

Abstract: Methods, systems and devices for pre-operatively planned shoulder surgery guides and implants. Pre-operative planning methods for designing a shoulder surgery guide based on considerations of multiple factors affecting the outcome of shoulder surgery. Methods of using surgery guides and implants in patients undergoing shoulder surgery.

Abstract: A computing device and a three-dimensional printer are disclosed. Data associated with reference anatomical properties is accessed by the computing device to generate a set of 3D printing files. The 3D printing files are compiled using the computing device to generate a printing model defining an anatomic orientation corresponding to the reference anatomical properties. Printing parameters and materials for the printing model are configured referencing experimentally derived datasets that define predetermined settings for the printing parameters and materials that are suitable for constructing a synthetic anatomical model with properties related to the reference anatomical properties. A synthetic model is printed using the printing parameters and materials as configured. The printing parameters and materials may be modified as desired subsequent to biomechanical testing of the model.

Abstract: A method of preparing a wound model. The method includes simulating a non-healing wound edge, simulating eschar, simulating a fibrin layer, simulating biofilm, and simulating foreign debris.

Abstract: There is provided a radiographic three-dimensional phantom for inter alia mimicking specific anatomical parts in a computerized tomography scan. Methods are provided for a variety of purposes including detecting a difference between a measured optical deformation of a radiographic three-dimensional phantom pair and a theoretical deformation of the radiographic three-dimensional phantom pair. These three-dimensional phantom can be divided into a plurality of portions, and non-radiopaque markers can be added to the portions. The portions of the three-dimensional phantom can be re-assembled, and images of the three-dimensional phantom can be generated and compared.

Abstract: A CPR patient training mannequin. The CPR patient training mannequin provides for training and teaching individuals in proper CPR technique. The mannequin includes a simulated torso section and simulated head section that enables a user to administer CPR and visually inspect the mannequin response to the administration. The torso section utilizes a sensor configured to detect pressure exerted by a user performing chest compressions and includes one or more lights positioned in a simulated carotid artery and brain that are operably connected to the sensor. The lights are configured to illuminate to indicate the pressure exerted by a user. In an alternative embodiment, the torso section includes simulated lungs having lights that illuminate if a user properly performs a jaw-thrust maneuver and nose pinch on the mannequin.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are simulated fibrous tissue models of anatomical parts for surgical training. The non-dissolvable simulated fibrous tissue model is made of a polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and fibrous material composite to simulate realistic tissue properties and behaviors. The simulated fibrous tissue model may be a standalone model of an anatomical part or may be used in a complementary anatomical simulation kit to provide a more comprehensive training approach.

Abstract: Systems for the simulation of percutaneous medical procedures are disclosed. The systems can include a simulated vasculature including a first component configured to allow for introduction of a medical device into the system through an introductory port, a second component connected to the first component and shaped to simulate a portion of a human vasculature, and a third component connected to the second component and shaped to simulate a delivery site for the medical procedure. The system can be configured to allow for a medical device to be delivered to the third component by passing through the introductory port of the first component and passing through the second component. The system can be configured to replicate simulated conditions of use for the medical procedure. Methods for simulating a percutaneous medical procedure using a simulated vasculature are also disclosed.

Abstract: A medical training system comprises a controller configured to program a plurality of medical device simulators, and a plurality of medical device simulators coupled to the controller, including at least two of a sphygmomanometer simulator, pulse simulator, thoracic cavity simulator, scale and stadiometer simulator, pulse oximetry simulator, and thermometer simulator. The plurality of medical device simulators form a suite of coordinating diagnostic medical simulators for live training and evaluation.

Abstract: A method of optimizing a processing time of a simulation engine that executes to create a simulated experience for a user, includes the steps of identifying a number of components that comprise the simulated experience to be rendered for the user in a virtual reality environment; assigns execution of the plurality of components to at least two threads, where the at least two threads execute in parallel on a CPU to create the simulated experience, where the first thread processes a first portion of the components for components that require rapid execution to create a realistic experience within the simulated experience, and reduces a processing load of the first thread by assigning a second portion of the components to execute in a second thread, where the second portion requires less rapid execution than the first portion to create the realistic experience.

Abstract: An embodiment of a system for anatomical training includes a portable base unit, a flexible simulated abdominal wall module, a flexible simulated cutaneous module and a simulated hernia module. An embodiment of a method of assembling a system includes attaching a flexible simulated abdominal wall module to a portable base unit, attaching a flexible simulated cutaneous module to one or more of the simulated abdominal wall module or the portable base unit, and positioning a simulated hernia to be extended through an opening in the simulated abdominal wall module. An embodiment of a method of using a system includes forming an opening in a flexible simulated cutaneous module, locating a simulated hernia extending through an opening in an underlying simulated abdominal wall module, performing a repair of the simulated hernia, and closing the opening in the simulated cutaneous module.

Abstract: An anatomical simulation training device is disclosed in an embodiment herein. The anatomical device includes an anatomical model comprising a quadrant of a torso. The model includes a first opening and a second opening, wherein a first passageway connects between the first and the second opening. The model further includes a third opening, wherein a second passageway connects between the third opening and the second opening. The first passageway is configured to receive a first conduit, and the second passageway is configured to receive a second conduit. The first and second conduits are removable and replaceable. The model is comprised of, in part or in whole, a hydrogel, and said model quadrant torso mimics at least a portion of a human or non-human animal quadrant torso, and simulates at least one predetermined physical characteristic of a human or non-human animal torso with at least fifty percent or more similarity.

Abstract: Provided is an organ model having a property such that each layer suitably peels off, a property such that sliding or a sense of catching is present besides a sense of elasticity that is felt when a surgical knife cuts the organ model open, and a property such that ligation can be performed without burying of a suture thread, and a property such that a knot of the thread gets caught on the organ model. An organ model being a laminated body in which plural layers each formed of a hydrogel material are laminated, and one or more of the layers is each a fiber group-containing layer in which fiber groups are approximately continuously present inside the layer and over the plane of the layer.

Abstract: Multi-metric surgery simulator devices, systems, and methods, involving at least one sensor configured to collect surgical training performance data relevant to at least one surgical task, the at least one sensor configured to operate with a surgical navigation system comprising a processor, the processor configurable, by way of a set of executable instructions storable in relation to a non-transitory medium, to perform at least one of analyze collected data, transform the collected data, and provide feedback in relation thereto; and at least one surgery simulator apparatus operatively coupled with the at least one sensor, the at least one surgery simulator apparatus configured to operate with a tracking system, whereby collected data is obtainable and clinical performance in relation to the at least one surgical task is quantitatively evaluable and progressively improvable.

Abstract: A system and method for providing a medical simulation device that utilizes open software platforms and provides functionality in both software and hardware modules is disclosed. The medical simulation system facilitates plug and play operation with installed hardware and software modules that are automatically recognized by the system for compatibility and the system configures itself according to identification information of the hardware module.

Abstract: A method for training a student in medical condition identification and intervention. The method can include the step of providing a mixed reality viewing device, providing a computing device, providing a physical object, storing a medical condition scenario in memory of the viewing device, storing the scenario in the memory of the computing device, anchoring a virtual image of at least a portion of a virtual patient on at least a portion of the physical object, selecting the scenario, commanding the processor of the computing device to initiate displaying the virtual image in a selected one of a plurality of stages, controlling one or more states and one or more properties of the physical object, assessing the student's identification of the one or more virtual critical cues; and assessing the student's identification of the one or more physical critical cues.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a chest tube trainer model. Specifically exemplified is a an anatomical model for simulating at least a portion of a thorax that includes a rib portion removably secured to and supported by a base, the rib portion comprised in whole or in part of a hydrogel; and a securing member for holding the anatomical model onto a human; wherein the rib portion has a convex shape defining a space between the base and the rib portion, the space is adapted for receiving a bladder disposed between the rib portion and the base; and at least a portion of the base is formed from puncture resistant material.

Abstract: An endoscope system includes: a first light source unit having a first terminal to which power is supplied; a second light source having a second terminal to which power is supplied; a light guide unit for guiding light of the first and second light source units to the inside of a target object; an image sensing unit configured to sense the light reflected from the target object; and an image signal processing unit configured to process signal from the sensing unit and display on a display unit. The first light source unit includes first and second perimeter units, the second light source unit includes a third perimeter unit, and a fourth perimeter unit, and the first and second terminals are provided in the second perimeter unit or the fourth perimeter unit other than an area between the first perimeter unit and the third perimeter unit that face each other.