Intelligent Ultrasound Group plc announced that it has launched a portable NeedleTrainer Plus ultrasound-guided needling training simulator. Aimed at training ultrasound-guided needling in military field-based hospitals, as well as clinical networks outside major urban areas, the system is packed in a robust, portable pelicase complete with a GE HealthCare Vscan handheld ultrasound device. NeedleTrainer is a first of its kind training simulator that uses a retractable needle and virtual image overlays to simulate needling on a live volunteer, using a live ultrasound scan.

This enables trainees to develop hand-eye coordination, optimum positioning, and accuracy in ultrasound-guided interventional procedures in a realistic clinical environment with minimal risk. The system is part of a portfolio that includes Intelligent Ultrasound's latest ScanNav?? Anatomy Peripheral Nerve Block, an AI technology that helps healthcare professionals to identify and label anatomy in live ultrasound images in preparation for ultrasound-guided regional anesthesia and analgesia.

The AI software automatically highlights the anatomy associated with the most common peripheral nerve blocks.