Section of Diagnostic Ultrasound
The Section of Diagnostic Ultrasound in Obstetrics & Gynecology provides excellent patient care and teaching and conducts high-quality research. The Diagnostic Ultrasound Center, with facilities in both Prentice Women's Hospital and Galter Pavilion, has earned a national reputation for its role in developing techniques to better define fetal growth, predict fetal weight and detect fetal anomalies.
About Our Work
Education
Faculty members from the divisions of Maternal-Fetal Medicine and Clinical Genetics provide training to medical students, residents and fellows complete rotations with the section to gain the knowledge and skills required to analyze and interpret data collected by ultrasonographers. Faculty also offer practical training to ultrasonography students completing rotations through the Northwestern Memorial Hospital School of Diagnostic Medical Ultrasound.
Research
Research in the Section of Diagnostic Ultrasound continues in a number of directions. Some investigators seek to determine the frequency of fetal chromosomal abnormalities in the presence of sonographically detected anatomic defects. Others are studying the accuracy of ultrasound in detecting anomalies and aberrant growth patterns. Research in gynecology is being conducted to establish the accuracy of color Doppler velocimetry in the diagnosis of ovarian cancer. Finally, the role of ultrasound in ovarian cancer screening is being evaluated in conjunction with scientists from the Division of Gynecologic Oncology.
Patient Care
To provide excellent comprehensive care, a multidisciplinary perinatal assessment team consisting of health professionals from Northwestern Memorial Hospital and Ann & Robert Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago meets regularly to review management and care of identified families and share current treatment and diagnostic options. In addition, the Northwestern Ovarian Cancer Early Detection Program includes vaginal ultrasound with Doppler flow in women at increased risk.
