Simple Gastric PoCUS Model

In contrast to the previous model, which comprised 10 STL files and required substantial printing and post-processing time, this simplified version represents the left side of the anatomy and can be printed as a single STL file. It is designed for learners completing point-of-care ultrasound (PoCUS) training. The model highlights the importance of using the liver as an acoustic window and identifying the aorta and superior mesenteric artery (SMA) to obtain the appropriate plane for measuring the antral cross-sectional area. It also illustrates how positioning the patient in the right lateral decubitus position promotes the accumulation of gastric contents in the antrum, supporting more accurate measurement of the antral surface area and estimation of gastric content volume.

The model includes cross-sectional representations of the liver, stomach, aorta, and superior mesenteric artery (SMA), corresponding to the ultrasound view obtained when the probe is positioned longitudinally over the epigastric region.

To compensate for the absence of colour, the model was modified to show a hollow stomach with corrugated mucosa and to represent the aorta and SMA as half-tubular structures.

Print difficulty: Easy

Material: PLA

Nozzle diameter: 0.4 mm

Layer height: 0.2 mm

Supports: Organic supports, touching the build plate only

Estimated post-processing time: Less than 5 minutes

Total filament required: Less than 150 g

For optimal printing, orient the model so that the ultrasound cross-section—where all four structures are visible—is facing downward and in contact with the build plate.