CathI - Training System for PTCA. A Step Closer to Reality

The number of minimally invasive cardiological interventions has increased over the last few years and therefore computer based training systems find growing interest. They offer a better learning schedule compared to traditional master-apprentice models due to the repeatability of the learning situation and the possibility to learn individual tasks. Below we present the research system CathI that allows (in principle) training of the full endovascular intervention but currently focuses on PTCAs. Having an environment being very close to reality one can not only train the intervention but also learn to use different kinds of catheters, wires and control instruments for the C-arm etc. CathI further supports various patient models.