DIY Ultrasound Model: Ocular
This page summarizes do-it-yourself (DIY) ultrasound models for the ocular system. Read more on the DIY ultrasound model compendium.
An Inexpensive and Easy Simulation Model of Ocular Ultrasound That Mimics Normal Anatomy as Well as Abnormal Ophthalmologic Conditions1
| Materials | Plastic bubble, gelatin, ECG lead, glue |
|---|---|
| Estimated Cost | Less than $20 |
Summary
Globes are generated by filling plastic bubbles that typically hold toys with gelatin, once removed, various changes are made to simulate enlarged optic nerve, foreign body, retinal detachment, vitreous hemorrhage, and retrobulbar hemorrhage.
Low cost ocular ultrasound phantom for the training in the diagnosis of the emergency eye pathology2
| Materials | Unflavored gelatin, 70% ethanol, plastic microwave-safe bowl, bowl with measurement, aluminum paper, lubricating oil, approximately 1 mm thick aluminum rod (1.5 cm wide, 40 cm long), spoon, electric hand mixer. |
|---|---|
| Estimated Cost | Not provided |
Summary
A moderately sized gel is created from the gelatin and ethanol. The aluminum rod is used to carve n eye model from the gel block like a cookie-cutter. The model is then replaced in the block for ultrasounding.
Validation of a Low-cost Optic Nerve Sheath Ultrasound Phantom: An Educational Tool3
| Materials | A 40-mm diameter ping-pong ball, assorted sizing of clear vinyl tubing, superglue or waterproof sealant, a drill with assorted bits, unflavored gelatin, sugar-free psyllium powder (e.g., Metamucil Sugar Free Dietary Fiber Supplement, Procter & Gamble), 18 gauge needle, 30 mL syringe, 473.176 mL plastic cups (e.g., Solo Plastic Party Cup, Dart Container Corporation) |
|---|---|
| Estimated Cost | Not provided |
Summary
The model is created by inserting a piece of vinyl tubing through the bottom of a plastic cup. The cup is then filled in gelatin and a water filled ping-pong ball is inserted up to the vinyl tubing (vinyl tubing represents the optic nerve). This model can simulate normal anatomy or enlarged optic nerve depending on the diameter of tubing used.
Updated April 21, 2019
References
- 1.Jafri F, Runde D, Saul T, Lewiss R. An inexpensive and easy simulation model of ocular ultrasound that mimics normal anatomy as well as abnormal ophthalmologic conditions. J Ultrasound Med. 2011;30(4):569-573. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21460157.
- 2.Cuévas Gonzales JL. Low cost ocular ultrasound phantom for the training in the diagnosis of the emergency eye pathology. Critical Ultrasound Journal. 2012:A26. doi:10.1186/2036-7902-4-s1-a26
- 3.Murphy D, Oberfoell S, Trent S, French A, Kim D, Richards D. Validation of a Low-cost Optic Nerve Sheath Ultrasound Phantom: An Educational Tool. J Med Ultrasound. 2017;25(2):96-100. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30065467.
Dallas Holladay, DO
Department of Emergency Medicine
Rush University
@Dallas_Holladay
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