Women\'s health researchers use diagnostic ultrasound system

Women’s health researchers from the University of Southampton based at Princess Anne Hospital in Southampton are benefiting from the installation of an ACUSON S2000 diagnostic ultrasound system.

The system from Siemens Healthcare replaces an ACUSON Sequoia that had been in use by the research team for several years.

The ACUSON S2000 is now handling a mixed obstetric research workload including first trimester scanning, fetal growth, anomaly and vascular imaging.

Previous research by the team has led to new insights into fetal blood flow responses to the mother’s diet and nutritional status plus ground-breaking findings on the influence of maternal vitamin D insufficiency on fetal bone development

The ACUSON S2000 features high-density element array transducers and delivers clear image resolution, allowing researchers to distinguish fine tissue detail. The system is ergonomically designed for maximum user comfort and flexibility, whether seated or standing, and the natural and extended reach zones are designed for ease-of- use, with the frequently used controls conveniently located.

“We were very happy with the performance of our ACUSON Sequoia so the more recent ACUSON systems were our first port of call when looking for a replacement,” said Dr Pam Mahon, superintendent sonographer at Southampton Women’s Survey Ultrasound Unit.

“The system will be used to acquire fetal growth and blood flow data in pregnant women taking part in a globally important study of vitamin D in pregnancy. With regard to the acquisition and installation of the system, the Siemens applications specialists were helpful and knowledgeable and the extra features on the new system, such as being able to directly archive to PACS, have been brilliant.”