A report by Deputy Health and Disability Commissioner Rose Wall described significant failures in the handling of ultrasounds during two separate pregnancies, leading to delayed diagnoses of critical conditions.
In the first case, congenital pulmonary airway malformation was missed in a foetus across multiple scans, delaying necessary treatment until 36 weeks, which could have started at 20 weeks. Suboptimal imaging, incorrect labeling, and a failure to recommend tertiary referral were key factors. The baby required complex surgeries, including lung removal, due to the late diagnosis.
The second case involved a twin pregnancy where renal anomalies in one twin were overlooked across five scans, resulting in the twin’s death three days after birth. The radiologist failed to review all images or recommend follow-ups despite early evidence of abnormalities.
Both practitioners involved were referred to professional boards, and the radiology service has since implemented additional training and audits. Recommendations were also made to improve radiology standards and accountability to prevent future breaches of healthcare rights.
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I’m sorry but iny experience of ultra sound I found the front desk staff and radiographer to get quite hideous. I’m not surprised at their lack of attention here.
A well trained radiographer is as much of a doctor as any GP. They are supposed to know their sh*t.