The acquisition of a dozen new and highly advanced ultrasound machines at London Health Sciences Centre (LHSC) will help better support patients while also serving as an education and training tool for hospital staff.
On Wednesday, the hospital network announced it has procured a fleet of 12 Voluson Expert 22 ultrasound machines by GE HealthCare. The machines use advanced AI technology to generate clear, accurate images much earlier in gestation that will aid patients with high-risk pregnancies.
The devices also have 3D and 4D capabilities and can automatically identify fetal anatomy and measurements, while increasing exam speed and providing more comfort for patients. The addition of the new ultrasound machines has led LHSC to be named a Centre of Excellence in Maternal Fetal Medicine.
“This is a significant advancement for Women’s Care at LHSC, which as a program delivers over six-thousand births a year and sees a large number of patients across our region with complex pregnancies,” read a statement from Dr. Tracey Crumley, Chair/Chief of Obstetrics and Gynecology. “This investment in infrastructure places LHSC as one of only four hospitals in the province with this type of advanced ultrasound capability, bringing remarkable obstetrical imaging closer to home.”
LHSC said the units will enhance user experience with an innovative design probe that will allow for sonographers to apply less pressure on patients to obtain clear diagnostic images. Workers will also get an opportunity to train on the new AI tools and capabilities, in turn improving care and efficiency of ultrasound exams.
Ten of the 12 machines are already being used clinically while the remaining two will be used towards advancements in research.
“GE HealthCare is proud of our work with [LHSC] as they continue to raise the bar on serving the greater London, Ontario community with innovative care,” said GE HealthCare Canada President Mike Hamilton.
The addition of the new ultrasound machines was made possible by $1.3 million in donations through London Health Sciences Foundation (LHSF).
