Possibilities of using the virtual simulator "Vimedix 3.2" in the process of training in the specialty "ultrasound and diagnostics"

Abstract

Background. In recent years, it is important to change the methods and programs of teaching many disciplines, including ultrasound diagnostics, with the inclusion of various virtual and simula-tion devices. The practical experience of using such technologies in the teaching process is rather short, therefore, there are few original works devoted to this topic in Russian and foreign literature.Aims. To determine the possibilities and algorithm of using virtual simulator of ultrasound re-search in the process of teaching the discipline of "ultrasound diagnostics" on the basis of the results of work with it. To evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of using simulator in comparison with traditional teaching methods.Material and methods. The results of using the virtual simulator "Vimedix 3.2" in the educa-tional process were analyzed. Simulations of transabdominal ultrasound examination of abdominal cavity organs, transthoracic echocardiography, triplex scanning of main vessels were performed on it. The study involved 26 residents in the specialty "ultrasound diagnostics", as well as 47 physicians who were trained at professional retraining courses.Results. The use of a virtual simulator at the initial stage in the training process can eliminate many of the problems that residents and trainees encounter in clinical sites. The use of a simulator in the testing process seems to be less favorable than a practical examination using ultrasound scanners and real patients.Conclusions. It is advisable to use the simulator at the initial stage to practice the research methodology. It is recommended to develop and use additional teaching materials and programs in training. The advantages of the virtual simulator are comfort of work at the initial stage of training, short time of its mastering, availability of an extensive database of pathological cases. The identified non-critical deficiencies require correction during further training in the clinic.