Training aids and methods for needle biopsy
US6568941B1 · kind B1 · utility
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 18, 2002 |
| Grant date | May 27, 2003 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 18, 2022 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG09B23/30
- WIPO fieldControl
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A training aid for teaching needle biopsy of the human breast. The inventive methods use breast models having lifelike properties providing accurate tactile sensation during palpation of the breast that enable a trainee to learn to locate modeled internal lesions and similar tissues in the breast. These same properties allow learning of tactile sensations indicating relative position and motion of biopsy needles during biopsy needling procedures. To facilitate tactile learning, the breast model includes an opaque skin that blocks the trainee view of a breast cavity containing modeled lesions, ensuring that needling procedures are performed based solely on “feel”. The present invention also includes alternative training methods using a second breast model that is sufficiently transparent to allow viewing of modeled lesions from any relative position. The present invention includes training systems incorporating breast models and viewing stands and methods of training using these aids.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.