An inexpensive and novel model for perimortem cesarean section.

INTRODUCTION: Perimortem cesarean section is a rare, time-critical, and potentially life-saving procedure for both the fetus and mother. This makes perimortem cesarean section an ideal and recommended subject for simulation learning and practice.

METHODS: Various attempts have been made to produce models to simulate emergency caesarian sections. We designed a cost-effective and easy to assemble model that can be used with any high fidelity simulator.The model was used as part of a simulation education module that is part of resident educational conferences. After the simulation day, residents were asked to fill out an anonymous online survey using a 5-point Likert scale.

RESULTS: Thirty-four emergency medicine residents took part in a perimortem caesarian section case. Nine (26%) completed the online survey. Eight respondents agreed or strongly agreed [4.33 (0.71)] that the model helped to familiarize them with a perimortem cesarean section. Eight residents also agreed or strongly agreed [4 (0.87)] that they were better prepared to perform this procedure, and 9 residents felt that knowledge from this session would help with their emergency department rotations [4.11 (0.33)]. Six residents agreed or strongly agreed that this model was a good replication of human anatomy [3.78 (0.97)]. All respondents agreed or strongly agreed [4.56 (0.53)] that this session enhanced learning more than traditional lectures and reading alone.

CONCLUSION: We present here an inexpensive, easy to make, and portable model, which can be used to simulate an emergency caesarian section.