Medical Imaging thanks Telethon and Mineral Resources for ultrasound equipment

A new dedicated paediatric ultrasound scanning suite at Fiona Stanley Hospital will enable world-class clinical care and outcomes for children by offering safer, faster, and more accurate diagnostics for almost two thousand young patients each year.

Thanks to funding from Mineral Resources (MinRes) and Telethon, the hospital’s Medical Imaging service will soon install a purpose-built paediatric ultrasound suite, catering exclusively for children.

Medical imaging staff and Fiona Stanley Fremantle Hospitals Group (FSFHG) Acting Executive Director Luke Dix recently welcomed guests from Telethon and MinRes to tour the space that has been set aside for the new suite, as well as facilities in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit and the children’s Emergency Department.

FSH Sonographer Supervisor Marilyn Zelesco said the technology will improve scans for premature babies right through to children of 16 years of age.

“The new equipment will have advanced imaging and software that will result in comprehensive diagnostic answers in fewer tests,” Marilyn said.

FSFHG Head of Service, Medical Imaging, Dr Brad Wood said high quality images and optimal diagnostic outcomes rely on a calm and cooperative patient, and this can be challenging when imaging sick and vulnerable children.

“The dedicated ultrasound scanning suite will provide a tranquil space that will reduce stress levels for patients, caregivers and clinicians,” Dr Wood said.

With the most common age requiring multiple ultrasounds being infants up to 12 months of age, high-resolution imaging specifically designed for paediatric anatomy will allow for early detection of congenital conditions such as heart defects, abdominal abnormalities and neurological issues.

“Early insight provided by the fit-for-purpose ultrasound equipment will support timely interventions, which can improve long-term development and survival rates,” Fiona Stanley Hospital Head of Service Neonatology, Dr Mangesh Deshmukh said.

Additionally, the dedicated ultrasound suite will improve patient flow and appointment availability.

“Visiting Fiona Stanley Hospital and meeting the remarkable team was a highlight of our visit, and we look forward to seeing the positive impact of the new paediatric ultrasound suite,” MinRes General Manager of Corporate Affairs, Cole Thurley said.

Thanks to MinRes and Telethon for supporting our hospital to provide exceptional care to Western Australian children.

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