SIMULATION MODELS IN EMERGENCY MEDICINE Christodoulou Ir 1,Babalis D 2,Ch. Pogonidis 2, E.Xenodoxidou 2 1.2nd Surgical Department, Papanikolaou Hospital, Thessaloniki, 2.Surgical Department, Hospital of Komotini, Thrace, Greece PURPOSE of this study is to present our experience from the procedure of manufacturing simulation models for emergency procedures. MATERIAL-METHODS: We have manufactured models for the execution of tracheotomy, thoracostomy technique, central venous catheter insertion, peritoneal lavage procedure and the use of Sengstagen Blakemore catheter. The above mentioned techniques will be presented to participants and they will have the chance to test the models by themselves. RESULTS: We have already tested our models in and out of Hospital. Home practice was the first choice of all asked doctors and simulation models- practice was characterized as satisfactory by 75 doctors, and moderate by 12 doctors. USA stands in the first position of sales of simulation models for doctors, while United Kingdom follows. In Greece, workshops with simulation models have been held with great success. Planned workshops for 2006 will educate general doctors and nurses for trauma care skills. CONCLUSION:Because inadequate medical education is a longstanding problem, simulations models may help a lot, especially via the innovation of home self-education and practice. The cost can be very low with the use of simple materials.