Foetal cardiology course gives confidence to identify and manage anomalies

Birmingham Women’s Hospital, part of Birmingham Women’s NHS Foundation Trust, recently hosted a two-day long foetal cardiology course. The sessions were designed for obstetricians, radiologists, radiographers and paediatric cardiologists with the main objective to increase knowledge and confidence to identify and manage abnormal foetal cardiac anatomy using ultrasound. 

Delegates from both the host hospital and further afield attended the course, including international representation. Delegates attended a variety of lectures ranging from foetal heart anatomy and pathology to midline cardiac anomalies. Lecturers included Professor Lindsey Allan of King’s College Hospital and Professor Mark Kilby of Birmingham Women’s Hospital, allowing delegates to gain in-depth knowledge and engage directly with foetal cardiology experts. 

“The content of the course was excellent and the lectures were very informative,” stated Ruth Brookes, Advanced Practitioner Sonographer at The Dudley Group NHS Foundation Trust, a delegate on the course. “It was particularly helpful to be able to visualise the moving cardiac images on ultrasound, as opposed to the traditional use of static slides. The case discussion focussing on abnormalities in first trimester cardiac scanning provided valuable information and insight. I have recommended this course to my colleagues and we very much hope it is one which will be run again.” 

“The foetal cardiology course held at Birmingham Women’s Hospital has proved to be a great success,” commented Bernadette Leonard, Regional Sales Manager and Clinical Applications Manager at Siemens Healthcare. “Delegates were guided through the latest advances and applications to increase knowledge of the foetal cardiac scanning and pathology. This educational course was well-received by delegates and we are confident it is one which will be repeated.” 

Staff Writer