Development and Implementation of a Pediatric Simulator for Training in Intraosseous Access Procedure

Intraosseous access is a critical emergency procedure for introducing fluids and blood components into the systemic circulation, necessitating thorough training for healthcare personnel. In collaboration with Meyer Children’s University Hospital IRCCS, the Department of Industrial Engineering at the University of Florence has developed a high-fidelity, low-cost pediatric simulator specifically for intraosseous access in the proximal tibia. Using Materialise Mimics 26® software, anonymized tomographic images of a 5-year-old patient were processed to obtain the three-dimensional geometry of relevant anatomical structures: tibia, fibula, distal femur, muscles, and skin. These models were further refined with Geomagic DesignX® for the final simulator design. The simulator features silicone replicas for soft tissues, with rigid structures and silicone casting molds produced through Fused Deposition Modeling. Preliminary tests were conducted to select suitable materials, which were then evaluated by specialized medical personnel using the EZ-IO® device to ensure accurate haptic feedback. The resulting simulator provides a realistic platform for intraosseous access training, enabling healthcare practitioners to enhance their procedural skills and ensure patient safety.