One Minute Poster Pitches Archive

UK & Ireland Prostate Brachytherapy Conference 2024

Abstract number 8 

A 3D Printed Phantom for Training in Ultrasound Guided Prostate Brachytherapy

Siobhan Gorman Glan Clwyd Hospital
Sreelish Kariyarambath Poole Hospital
Peter Gribbin

Purpose: We have produced a phantom for training in transrectal ultrasound guided HDR and LDR prostate brachytherapy. It is low-cost and more environmentally friendly than existing commercial options because it is almost entirely reusable. 

Methods: After outlining the concept and defining the requirements of the phantom, a design engineer produced several iterations of the device. Each version improved upon the last based upon testing. This iterative process was enabled by 3D printing. 

Results: We have produced a low-cost phantom which is comprised of 3D printed components, a prostate shaped agar jelly and off the shelf parts. The prostate jelly is formed by the user in advance using a 3D printed mould, this is then disposed of at the end of the training session. The prostate and urethra (made of silicone tubing) can be clearly seen on ultrasound imaging for contouring in the planning system. The phantom has proven successful as a treatment planning training aid. It can be used to simulate the planning process end-to-end so it is preferable to using stored images. A further accessory is a fixture for the needle grid for reproducible positioning. 

Conclusion: We have found the 3D printed phantom to be useful as a training aid in treatment planning for prostate brachytherapy whilst avoiding the prohibitive cost of alternative options.