Three-dimensional printed neonatal cannulation phantom for ultrasound-guided vascular access training

Abstract

Commercially available cannulation phantoms are expensive and primarily intended for adults. We designed and produced a neonatal cannulation phantom using three-dimensional printing. Different operators of varying clinical expertise successfully cannulated the phantom and inserted central catheter under ultrasound guidance. This is a reusable, realistic and valuable resource which can be used for training clinicians to gain practice, thereby improving hand-eye coordination, dexterity, confidence and safety during vascular access cannulation in newborn infants.Copyright © 2026. The Author(s).