Ultrasound Training for Obstetric & Gynaecology Trainees in the Severn Deanery

The RCOG have developed new ultrasound modules which need to be delivered at Deanery level. Detailed information is available on the RCOG website.  

It is important that all trainees are aware of these modules especially for trainees in ST1-3 in August 2008. A summary is given below:

Basic Modules

These need to be completed by the end of ST5 for all trainees commencing ST1-ST3 August 2008. (recommended but not mandatory for all trainees ST4 and above in August 2008)

Early Pregnancy (8-12 weeks) – trainees need to be able to identify a viable intrauterine pregnancy – they are not expected to diagnose a non viable pregnancy or undertake a TVS. It is envisaged that this training would take place in the dating scan clinic.

Assessment of fetal size, liquor and placenta – trainees need to undertake full biometry including HC (BPD), AC and FL, perform assessment of liquor volume and assess placental site transabdominally. How and where this training should be provided is under discussion nationally and locally.  Trainees should take advantage of opportunities on Delivery Suite, the Assessment Unit or Antenatal clinic depending on local availability.

Intermediate Modules 

These are undertaken selectively by trainees. They are mandatory for trainees in ST4-5 who wish to undertake certain ATSMs in ST6-7 (fetal medicine, acute gynaecology and early pregnancy) 

Normal Fetal Anatomy – trainees will need to undertake a full anomaly scan.

Ultrasound in Gynaecology – trainees will need access to gynaecology scanning to assess normal female pelvis, fibroids, endometrial abnormalities, pelvic pain, ovarian lesions.

Early pregnancy Complications – trainees will need to be able to perform all scans required in an early pregnancy unit including viability, early pregnancy demise and suspected ectopic pregnancy.

AVAILABILITY OF ULTRASOUND TRAINING

The availability of ultrasound training is variable in the different Trusts in the Severn Deanery.  The following information is provided to guide trainees to ensure they utilise the training available during their placements in those Trusts.

The Severn Deanery Ultrasound Co-Ordinators are:

Gynaecology:    Mrs Caroline Overton      St Michaels Hospital, Bristol
Obstetrics:        Mr Simon Grant                 Southmead Hospital, Bristol

AVAILABILITY OF ULTRASOUND TRAINING IN THE SEVERN DEANERY:

Trainees wishing to undertake intermediate ultrasound modules should contact the Ultrasound Co-ordinator in the relevant Trust prior to commencement of their placement as Training opportunities are limited & cannot be guaranteed for all trainees.

Dina Bisson

Head of School of Obstetrics and Gynaecology
Severn Deanery