Low-Cost, Reusable, 3-Dimensional–Printed Phantoms for Resident Training in Ultrasound-Guided Peripheral Intravenous Access

Commercially available simulation phantoms are prohibitively expensive and unaffordable for most training programs. Low-cost, reusable, 3D-printed simulation models may bridge this gap by enabling learners to practice performing US-guided procedures. This study evaluated the feasibility and educational value of a 3D-printed US-guided peripheral intravenous (PIV) simulation model for point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) education.

Emergency medicine (EM) residents received a demonstration on model use and performed a single US-guided PIV insertion attempt on the 3D-printed phantom. US trained faculty observed and graded residents on several performance metrics. Time to completion was recorded, and residents then completed a survey assessing ease of use, realism, and confidence improvement.

A total of 20 EM residents tested this model. 18 residents (90%; 95% CI 68–98) completed the procedure within 2 minutes and 19 residents (95%; 95% CI 75–99) achieved successful cannulation. The median procedure time was 52 seconds. Residents rated the phantom positively. Anatomic realism received a mean score of 8.01 on a 10 cm likert scale (95% CI 7.23–8.79). US image quality was rated 8.84 (95% CI 8.25–9.42). The phantom’s impact on improved procedural confidence averaged 8.65 (95% CI 7.97–9.33). The model was low-cost and highly usable. The 3D-printed mold costs approximately $35 to make. Based on materials used, we expect it to allow indefinite reuse. The estimated cost of materials per model was $7.11. Each model can be used at least 32 times before degradation of image quality.

This low-cost, reusable 3D-printed ultrasound-guided PIV phantom was effective, realistic, and feasible for resident training. The high success rate and short procedure times suggest that affordable 3D-printed models can provide a sustainable alternative to commercial simulators, expanding access to PIV training across diverse educational settings.