MDI operates advanced ultrasound systems.

Ultrasound - given its lack of radiation and its real-time nature - is ideally suited to the investigation and observation of mothers and babies (pre-natally).

The Service is lead by Consultants:

Brentwood: Dr M O Thompson, Consultant Gynaecologist & Obstetrician, Barking, Havering & Redbridge NHS Trust

Sevenoaks: Dr D Penman, Consultant Gynaecologist & Obstetrician

Please see below for the range of scans we perform.

Gynaecology scan

This is a detailed assessment of a woman’s pelvic organs using our high quality scanner.  You should bring relevant information (brief outline of the problem, day of your last period and any other significant issues). Most of these scans are performed internally – trans-vaginal ultrasound.  This scan requires a full bladder – so you are advised to drink 1-2 litres. 90 minutes before the scan.

6-18 Weeks: Fetal Viability and Dating Assessment

This scan is used to confirm the viability of the pregnancy i.e. to check baby's heart beat and check that the baby is in the uterus.  Gross abnormalities, and the number of babies, may be detected at this stage, but an in-depth review (Anomaly Assessment) can only be performed after 18 weeks (see below).  This scan is also used to confirm the expected delivery date.

Up to 14 weeks, the baby is measured from its head to bottom to establish the gestational age of the baby, and thus the expected date of delivery.  After 14 weeks this is calculated by head measurements.  On occasions, we may need to perform an internal trans-vaginal scan to give a clearer image.  You are advised to attend with a full bladder.

11-13 Weeks: Nuchal Assessments

The purpose of this assessment is to estimate the risk of Down’s Syndrome (a chromosomal abnormality).  This is done, initially, by measuring the amount of fluid at the back of the neck of the foetus.  This measurement gives an indication of the risk, which can be further refined with a blood test.  The blood test will only be conducted if the nuchal measurements indicate a need for a more accurate assessment.  However good the equipment, and experienced the obstetrician/ sonographer, this result can be wrong; but it does provide a good guide.

The assessment is usually performed through the abdomen, but occasionally the view may not be clear enough and it may need to be performed via the vagina.  You are advised to attend with a comfortably full bladder.

18-24 Weeks: Foetal Anomaly Assessment

This assessment uses the capabilities and safety of an ultrasound scan to give the new baby a full check-up.  Though nothing is guaranteed to be 100% accurate, it is the first real opportunity to assess the baby’s organs and well-being.  It is a detailed review of the baby’s anatomy, including the head, spine, heart, and kidneys.  We will also check if the baby has a cleft palate, and assess the placenta and liquid surrounding the baby. 
This examination is best done in a stress-free environment such as the LDSC, and can take 45 mins to 1 hour.  This will give you the opportunity to ask questions, and discuss the findings.  Further referral and follow-up may be necessary.

24 – 42 Weeks: Foetal Wellbeing

This scan, performed after the foetal anomaly scan, provides a comprehensive assessment of the baby's overall development and growth.   We will check the placenta, the volume of fluid around the baby, the blood flow through the cord and the measurements of the baby's head, abdomen and femur.  These will give an indication of the development and weight of the baby.  This serves as a second check for development issues.

This examination is best done in a stress-free, environment where time and technology are on your side.  This examination may take up to 45 minutes, and patients are reminded to bring their notes with them.

24 – 42 Weeks: Foetal Gender Scan

Gender scans are performed to determine the sex of the baby.  Again, this assessment, though not foolproof, is correct in the vast majority of cases.  Please note that we will not conduct this examination if the baby is under 24 weeks.

35 – 42 Weeks: Foetal Presentation Scan

This scan identifies if the baby is breech (head up) or cephalic (head down).  This is most useful shortly before due date, and will give a good indication of the presentation of the baby at delivery.  This examination should take less than 30 minutes, and 2D images will be supplied.