NEWS FROM CHANNEL 44 T V -OWENSBORO HEALTH PERFORMS FIRST FETUS ECHOCARDIOGRAM

  by BRITNEY TAYLOR KENTUCKY, OWENSBORO

Owensboro Health Regional Hospital partnered with University of Louisville to perform the first fetal echocardiogram.

A fetal echocardiogram (echo for short) is a diagnostic tool that uses ultrasound waves to create images of a baby’s heart. These images show the structure and function of the baby’s heart. A doctor can then review the images allowing them to diagnose heart conditions and problems. The fetal echo is designed to help identify “high-risk pregnancies” and take the proper steps to care for the mother and baby.

The first fetal echo was completed June 6th at Owensboro Health by sonographers with the electrodiagnostics unit. The images were sent to a UofL doctor and other specialists. According to specialists from Owensboro Health and UofL, this enhances prenatal and newborn care in Owensboro and the surrounding region.

Manager of the Electrodiagnostics unit at Owensboro Health Regional Hospital, RN, Sara Abell says, “The goal is to identify babies with cardiac defects and manage their care in the safest way possible, and for as many babies to be delivered as close to home as possible. Fetal echocardiograms can help the physicians guide the families appropriately.”