Picture perfect scans for mums and bubs
Picture perfect scans for mums and bubs
Women across the lower North Island and upper South Island now have free access to the latest in ultrasound technology, with Wellington Regional Hospital having this week installed two new maternal fetal medicine (MFM) ultrasound scanners.
Referred to at the hospital as “the twins”, the scanners are highly specialised machines that can be used for both general obstetrics and advanced gynaecology.
“With 3D and 4D capability and high resolution, they’re advanced diagnostic machines that enable us to get a better view of fetal anomalies in-utero,” said Dr Jay Marlow.
“Having the best quality imaging and information is hugely important for neonatal paediatricians, who need as much information as possible in order to make diagnoses and establish plans before a baby is born.”
Wellington Regional Hospital has a high-risk fetal medicine and tertiary gynaecology unit – the only unit outside Auckland with fetal medicine sub-specialists.
“We do all fetal anomaly scans and fetal (in-utero) surgery for patients from Taranaki to Nelson, and are the destination for mothers whose babies have anomalies and are in need of diagnosis and plans.
“For this reason we need to have the latest in ultrasound technology and these scanners – the only ones in the country aside from Auckland – are superior to anything being provided privately in the community.
“More than 6000 women will be scanned with these machines per year. This investment, of around $250,000 per scanner, is about more than equipment – it’s an investment in improving the chances of survival for babies with anomalies.”
ENDS