Ultrasound scanning is now an inherent part of the provision of Maternity and gynaecological care. At the Scotia Clinic we commit to maintaining a high quality scanning facility. Our ultrasound machines are the most up to date available with 3D obstetric and gynaecological software installed.
Many patients choose to complement their existing public care with additional scans at The Scanning Room.
All machines are serviced to ensure a service and we ensure the best infection control standards are maintained.
Our ultrasonographers are all trained to a high level and undergo continuing professional education. The team is led by Dr. Mary McCaffrey and Dr. Halim with a number of ultrasonographers working under their guidance. All scans are reviewed by a medical consultant.
Ultrasound scanning is now an inherent part of the provision of Maternity and gynaecological care. At the Scotia Clinic we commit to maintaining a high quality scanning facility. Our ultrasound machines are the most up to date available with 3D obstetric and gynaecological software installed. Early screening of chromosomal anomalies is the most accurate early test and can be completed within the clinic.
Early Pregnancy Scans
Many couples feel reassured by having a scan during the first 12 weeks of their pregnancy, especially if they have had complications such as previous miscarriages, an ectopic pregnancy or molar pregnancy. At approximately 4 weeks it is possible to ensure the pregnancy sac is in the womb; however at this stage it would not be possible to see a foetus or heartbeat but it can be reassuring to know the pregnancy is correctly positioned in the womb. At such an early stage it may be necessary to perform the scan transvaginally to get a clear picture and this is not harmful for the baby. Occasionally, it may be necessary to repeat the scan to confirm dates etc.
Early Screening for Down Syndrome
The most modern methods of screening for Down Syndrome involve a special NIPT blood test which is combined with an ultrasound scan. This test can be performed at the Scotia Clinic from 10 weeks of pregnancy and is more accurate than the NT scan which measured the skinfold thickness at the back of the baby’s neck.
Reassurance and Growth Scans
While women who are high risk for foetal growth issues will have additional scans as part of their hospital based care, some couples request additional scans. In a growth scan we undertake a number of measurements of the head, abdomen and thigh bone. We assess the fluid around the baby and may look at the blood flow in the umbilical blood vessels. A baseline growth scan is best done around 32 weeks of pregnancy. At this scan it can be possible to look at the baby’s gender and get some 3D images of the baby.
If we feel that there needs to be further interventions we will advise you to return to the Consultant providing your pregnancy care.
Foetal Anatomy Scans
A Level 2 anatomy can be performed from 18-22 weeks. People often refer to this as a “20 week” scan; however there can be a benefit in waiting a little longer than 20 weeks to allow the heart to be seen more clearly. The baby’s gender may be identified at this time and it is also a good time to get 3D images of the baby. If couples are having an anatomy scan we provide detailed information leaflet in advance so that they fully understand the scan and its limitations. In a small number of cases a woman may need to return for a second scan if some parts of the baby’s anatomy are not clearly visible on the first scan.
In situations where the opinion of a Foetal Medicine specialist is required your scan images may be forwarded electronically or an appointment may be made for a further scan with a foetal medicine specialist.
Series of Scans
Some couples may wish to have an early pregnancy scan, anatomy scan and growth scan as part of a combined care package and this can be facilitated.
Gynaecological Scanning
The Scotia Clinic provide their own “in house “gynaecological scanning service including hysterosongraphy for fertility and investigation of heavy periods; this replaces hysterosalpingograms which are radiation based.
Gynaecological conditions which benefit from a Trans-Vaginal scan include: heavy periods, post-menopausal bleeding, pelvic pain, fertility problems and suspected ovarian cysts. Some ovarian cysts can be drained via ultrasound guidance.
The Scotia Clinic provides satellite IVF support in the form of follicle tracking scans for partner clinics in Ireland and throughout Europe. We will also facilitate other clinics on request.
