Medical manikins are designed to mimic human anatomy as realistically as possible while being durable enough for repeated use in training. The materials used vary depending on the manikin’s purpose—whether for CPR practice, surgical simulation, or high-fidelity patient care training. Below are the most common materials used in medical manikins.

1. Silicone & Synthetic Rubbers

• Uses: Skin-like texture for realistic touch, wound simulation, and facial features.

• Examples:

  • Silicone – Used in high-end manikins (e.g., SynDaver) for lifelike tissue feel.

  • Latex-free synthetic rubber – Found in CPR manikins like Laerdal’s Resusci Anne.

• Benefits: Flexible, durable, and easy to clean.

2. Thermoplastic Elastomers (TPE & PVC)

• Uses: Cost-effective alternative to silicone for basic training manikins.

• Examples:

  • TPE (Thermoplastic Elastomer) – Used in Gaumard’s HAL® for realistic skin feel.

  • PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) – Common in budget-friendly CPR dummies.

• Benefits: Resistant to oils and disinfectants, long-lasting.

3. Polyurethane Foam & Plastics

• Uses: Internal structures, skeletal frames, and lightweight manikin bodies.

• Examples:

  • Rigid plastics (ABS, polycarbonate) – Used in structural parts of high-fidelity manikins.

  • Flexible foam – Simulates muscle and fat layers in surgical trainers.

• Benefits: Lightweight yet sturdy, good for repetitive use.

4. Metals & Mechanical Components

• Uses: Internal mechanisms for movement, joint articulation, and electronic sensors.

• Examples:

  • Aluminum & steel – Used in robotic manikins like CAE Healthcare’s Lucina (for childbirth simulation).

  • Springs & hydraulics – Enable breathing and pulse simulations.

• Benefits: Provides durability for mechanical functions.

5. Electronic & Smart Materials

• Uses: High-fidelity manikins with responsive AI, sensors, and interactive features.

• Examples:

  • Conductive polymers – Allow for EKG and defibrillation training.

  • Pressure-sensitive materials – Provide feedback on CPR compression accuracy.

• Benefits: Enables real-time performance tracking and adaptive learning.

Why Do Material Choices Matter?

• Realism: Silicone and TPE mimic human skin for better tactile training.

• Durability: Plastics and metals ensure long-term use in high-traffic training environments.

• Hygiene: Non-porous materials (like silicone and PVC) resist bacteria and are easy to sanitize.

• Cost: Budget models use PVC and foam, while advanced simulators invest in silicone and electronics.

Future Trends in Medical Manikin Materials

• Self-healing polymers – For longer-lasting manikins that repair minor wear and tear.

• Biocompatible materials – To simulate even more realistic tissue responses.

• 3D-printed components – Customizable anatomy for specialized training.

Conclusion

Medical manikins are made from a combination of silicone, TPE, plastics, metals, and smart materials, each chosen for durability, realism, and functionality. Whether it’s a simple CPR dummy or a high-tech robotic patient, the right materials ensure effective, safe, and repeatable training for healthcare professionals.