Abstract
The objective of this project was to develop inexpensive, portable, anthropomorphic ultrasound phantoms that can be readily reproduced for use in sonography education programs. Hydrophilic organic polymer, water, polyester fiberfill, latex and nylon tubing have been used to construct prototype phantoms of a pediatric upper and lower abdomen, adult female pelvis, and adult neck regions. A nontoxic, biodegradable, hydrophilic organic polymer in a 1:12 ratio with water produced suitable primary construction media. Images obtained of the prototype phantoms were judged by experienced sonographers to adequately simulate human ultrasonic images. The sound propagation speed through the organic polymer was equivalent to that of soft tissue. Using this technique, sonographic imaging in representative human body regions may be simulated using inexpensive organic polymer and consumer products. Phantom portability and ease of construction facilitates use of this design for demonstrations and hands-on scanning exercises within sonography education programs.