Simulation Equipment for Clinical Research

The Simulation Laboratory in the McConnell Centre for Innovative Medicine was specifically designed to support clinical research. Integrated within the McGill University Health Centre (MUHC) at the Glen site, and a part of the Research Institute of the MUHC, the Simulation Laboratory offers state-of-the-art simulation services and equipment to clinicians and clinician scientists. Contact us to schedule a tour or to learn more about how we can support excellence in your clinical research!

Equipment list, Simulation Laboratory

Virtamed ArthroS

Orthopedic surgery requires an intensive didactic program, especially for the very specific skills needed to master arthroscopic surgery. On VirtaMed ArthroS™, trainees use original medical devices, which facilitates a transfer of skills to the OR. Training cases include diagnostic and therapeutic arthroscopy in knee and shoulder, as well as hip, ankle, and basic skills training on the ABOS-mandated FAST module...

VirtaMed GynoS

VirtaMed GynoS™ provides gynecology training in a virtual environment with no risk to live patients. It is the most realistic virtual reality simulator for uterine sounding, IUD insertion, and embryo transfer. Trainees can use a speculum and manipulate the version and flexion of the uterus with tenaculum forceps. Ghost tools demonstrate the correct movements and the unique patient comfort scale makes sure the doctor remembers to treat the patient with care. After completing the diagnostic and therapeutic endoscopy training on VirtaMed GynoS™, residents know how to take a proper biopsy, how to remove polyps with scissors or a grasper, and how to handle challenging cases, including, but not limited to, a fundal septum, multiple and intramural fibroids, and intensive bleeding.

Fundamentals of Laparoscopic Surgery All-In-One Trainer Box (FLS)

Developed by the Society of American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgeons (SAGES), the Fundamentals of Laparoscopic Surgery (FLS) aids surgeons and surgical residents to acquire essential skills required during laparoscopic surgery. The FLS All-In-One Trainer system includes PEG transfer, pattern cutting, endoloop placement, extracorporeal suturing and intracorporeal suturing.

Seimen’s Acuson S3000 Ultrasound System

The ACUSON S3000™ Ultrasound System, HELX™ Evolution with Touch Control was designed with a dedicated focus on General Imaging and Interventional Radiology. It offers new levels of workflow efficiency, imaging performance and sustainability. The system is Siemens' premium ultrasound system that offers unique solutions, such as elastography imaging, multi-modality review and contrast-enhanced ultrasound.

Blue Phantom - Ultrasound Central Line Training Model with Auto Pump

The Blue Phantom Ultrasound Central line training model torso allows clinicians to perform complete central line placements of the internal jugular and subclavian vein. This model simulates the human anatomy required for CVAD teaching and practice of central line placement. This can be done with a real ultrasound system or through blind insertion procedural training.

Blue Phantom - Thoracentesis and Thoracostomy Ultrasound Model

The Thoracentesis and Thoracostomy ultrasound model can be used to demonstrate and practice needle and catheter insertion in a patient with pleural effusions. Clinicians can also perform chest tube thoracostomy utilizing non-ultrasoundable chest portals.

Blue Phantom - Breast Biopsy Ultrasound Training Model

Blue Phantom’s breast ultrasound medical training model contains 14 different masses of varying size that are hyperechoic, hypoechoic, and echolucent. Clinicians are able to develop and practice the skills necessary to gain proficiency in using ultrasound for imaging and surgical procedures.

CAE iStan Patient Simulator

The iStan is a high-fidelity patient simulator with modeled human physiology. Multidisciplinary learners are able to work through clinical scenarios to assess, diagnose and treat the patient. This high-fidelity mannequin is controlled with software and can simulate a variety of lung, heart and abdominal sounds. Pulses can be palpated throughout his body; he has capillary refill and cyanosis capabilities, 5 bleeding ports and much more. Faculty can use preprogrammed Simulated Clinical Experiences (SCEs) or create their own.

CAE EndoVR Interventional Simulator

The EndoVR Interventional Simulator permits training of bronchoscopy and gastrointestinal procedures by use of virtual reality. Clinicians have the opportunity to use learning modules such as bronchoscopy, EBUS-TBNA, upper GI, and lower GI. Custom user profiles can be created with a tailored curriculum of tasks or cases to meet learner needs.

CAE LapVR Surgical Simulator

The LapVR Surgical Simulator uses advanced graphics, haptics and patient cases to enhance essential surgical skills training. Clinicians are able to perfect skills such as cutting, clipping, needle driving and knot tying. Additional modules available include General Surgery (appendectomy and cholecystectomy) and minimally invasive OB-GYN procedures such as bilateral tubal occlusion, tubal ectopic pregnancy, and salpingo-oophorectomy.

Unity Ultraportable Camera system

The LearningSpace Ultraportable system is ideal for in-situ simulations. The wireless, battery-powered HD mobile system allows for event recording and review/playback anywhere the simulation or activity is occurring. Video recordings can also be stored on the LearningSpace system for download, sharing or review at a later date.

CAE-Stryker integrated audiovisual system

The Research Institute at the McGill University Health Centre in Montreal is the site of a unique collaboration between Stryker and CAE Healthcare. By integrating CAE’s LearningSpace center management system with the iSuite room control routing system, users can now practice surgical scenarios with a variety of CAE simulators in the Simulation Room and have the video streams displayed in real-time in the Operating Room. A two-way audio/video channel allows users, to communicate with one another and provide on-the-spot feedback and direction. Cameras capture cases in the Operating Room and record them for future analysis through Stryker’s iSuite media asset management product. This platform allows users to create custom presentations from both captured surgical footage and from simulator video streams, to edit and annotate for personalized teaching materials, and to share cases with other physicians for consultative and learning opportunities. CAE’s LearningSpace provides residents the ability to simulate surgical procedures in a highly-collaborative, fully-integrated clinical environment; becoming a requirement in any comprehensive medical education program.