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Improving Training for Endoscopic Third Ventriculostomy
- Program: Biomedical Engineering
- Course: EN.580.X12 BME Design Team
- Year: 2026
Project Description:
Endoscopic Third Ventriculostomy (ETV) is a neurosurgical procedure used to treat hydrocephalus, or the accumulation of excess cerebrospinal fluid in the ventricles of the brain. ETVs are minimally invasive and lifesaving, yet the procedure’s steep learning curve makes them difficult to perform. The small and sensitive neuroanatomy combined with the navigation of an endoscope while watching 2D video footage makes ETV difficult to learn, with limited opportunities to gain practice outside of the OR. Our team has developed a high-fidelity physical simulator of the key steps and anatomical features of the procedure in order to improve training of ETV among neurosurgical residents.
Project Photo:
Simulator components include (1) brain cap, (2) angled stand with subarachnoid anatomy (basilar artery), (3) silicone block with intraventricular anatomy, (4) silicone sheets for replaceable floor, and (5) mimetic endoscope
