Design of a maternal phantom model

For trauma measurement and experimental purposes

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Abstract

The goal of this study was to design a maternal phantom model specialized for experiments in which the stresses in the amniotic sac can be determined during fetoscopic procedures. These stresses caused by surgical procedures are believed to be the leading cause of post surgical pre-birth. Measuring these stresses indicates the quality of fetoscopic instruments and surgical procedures.
Founded with literature and experiments with amniotic tissue, the requirements for the design of the phantom model were formulated. With these requirements as a framework a design was made which was validated by medical specialists.
Measuring the stresses in the amniotic sac failed, therefore measuring the translations of the amniotic tissue was used as a measure of trauma. This proved a success as medical specialists were positive about the design of the phantom model.
The findings in this study support the idea that there is a need for a maternal phantom model for the development of fetoscopic procedures. Measuring the translations of the instruments through the amniotic sac is a successful method for indicating trauma. The resulting design showed potential as a training tool as well.
The developed phantom model is a successful first step in making a maternal phantom model to contribute to the quality of fetoscopic procedures.