ECMO Clinical Training Model

Overview

Venoarterial Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (VA-ECMO) is a mechanical support therapy for patients with critical heart and lung dysfunction. VA-ECMO supports the body by temporarily functioning as the heart and lungs while a patient undergoes treatment or awaits an organ transplant. However, VA-ECMO is incredibly challenging to implement quickly as it involves femoral cannulation. The procedural complexity often leads to complications and ~50% mortality rate. We have engineered a portable, mannequin-integrated training model offering a functional and human-like environment where clinicians can practice and master VA-ECMO cannulation techniques without risk to patients or dependence on animal models.

A mock circulatory loop (MCL) with a centrifugal pump, a solenoid valve for pulsative flow, and a reservoir was housed within a modified medical mannequin. The pelvis was redesigned via 3D scanning and printing to incorporate a silicone-based tissue mimicking material (TMM) at the cannulation site. While ICU specialists already rate our arterial flashback and physical resemblance, current limitations in the ultrasound imaging quality of the cannulation region and vessel tactility remain the primary barriers. This project is ideal for undergrad or postgrad student with a strong interest in cardiovascular engineering and material development. This project provides hands-on experience in developing and improving current training prototype for critical care training.

Research engagement

Lab based work, material optimisation, engineering.

Research activities

Refine our prototype by optimising the acoustic and mechanical properties of TMMs in the femoral region. Design, fabricate, and evaluate vascular components to enhance anatomical realism and training fidelity, and develop a blood-mimicking fluid for integration into the MCL.

Research skills

You will gain experience in healthcare simulation technology, 3D printing, cardiovascular engineering with mock circulatory loop design and testing, and technical skills in evaluating and improving properties of synthetic materials to mimic human tissue and fluid.

Outcomes

Contribute to standardising VA-ECMO training and advancing critical care education by enhancing ultrasound realism and vessel fidelity. Your work will help create a highly realistic platform that enables clinicians to master life-saving cannulation techniques in a safe, risk-free environment.

Skills and experience

This project is ideal for a motivated student with an interest in biomedical engineering and healthcare innovation. The successful candidate will enjoy hands-on research, prototype development, and experimental testing, and be excited by the opportunity to apply engineering solutions to real-world clinical challenges. Experience with biomaterials, CAD, 3D printing, medical simulation, or laboratory research is desirable but not required.

Start date

2 November, 2026

End date

19 February, 2027

Location

QUT, Gardens Point

Keywords

• ECMO
• Biomaterials
• Clinical Training

Contact

Madi Rhodes

0401619310

m2.rhodes@qut.edu.au