Available in Cartagena, Murcia and San Javier
FISH
What is it
Prenatal diagnosis is the group of techniques that enables the the study the growth and development of the fetus before birth. Its main focus is on detecting possible birth defects in the morphological, structural, functional or molecular development of the fetus during pregnancy.
These methods include:
– Fluorescent In Situ Hybridization (FISH), is a recent technique that uses recombinant DNA molecules labeled with a fluorophore, that allows the detection within 24-48 hours, of certain genetic or chromosomal abnormalities more accurately than the standard cytogenetic tests.
What is its purpose
Increasingly, FISH makes possible the diagnosis of a greater number of microdeletion syndromes microdeletion, resulting from the simultaneous loss of a block of contiguous genes that can not be detected by conventional chromosomal analysis, among which are Williams syndrome, Miller-Dieker syndrome or Prader-Willi syndrome / Angelman, among others.
How is it done?
First, a sample of DNA fragments are taken from chromosomal regions to be studied, these are marked with a fluorescent dye. Fragments adhere and emit a fluorescent signal. The emitted signal is observed by a fluorescence microscope and so the sample can be classified according to the presence or absence of any abnormal fragment.
Amniocentesis
Amniocentesis is a fairly standard procedure, performed between 15 and 18 weeks, a small amount of the amniotic fluid that surrounds the fetus is extracted and examined.
What is its purpose
Amniocentesis is not routinely indicated in all pregnancies, only when there is a risk that the fetus may suffer from certain conditions. This test primarily establishes whether or not there are congenital defects, malformations or genetic disorders such as Down syndrome or neural tube defects, the need to perform these tests is determined by the age of the mother, family history, previous pregnancies or existing children affected by these conditions.
How is it done
First and ultrasound is performed to determine the position of the fetus, then a fine long, fine needle is passed through the abdominal wall and a sample of amniotic fluid is taken from the womb. The test normally only takes a few minutes to perform and is not recommended during the first trimester because of the increased risk of miscarriage.
Available in Cartagena.
Obstetrics and Ginaecology
What is it
4D ultrasound is obtaining three dimensional, real time images of the fetus with ultrasound, it allows a visualisation of 40 images per second with views from every angle so that you can observe every detail clearly. It is like looking at a photograph of your baby as you can see with great precision the features, gestures and movements of the child, seeing them as they cry, yawn and smile.
What is its purpose
This technique is very effective in clinical monitoring of pregnancy. Like conventional ultrasound, 4D, makes possible the study and analysis of fetal growth patterns and the location of possible complications that can affect the baby’s skin such as cleft lip or cleft palate. The main advantage over traditional ultrasound is that 4D is that it is performed in real time and using photographic images, providing much more precise examinations.
Through the results obtained, controls and treatments can be adapted throughout the stages of pregnancy.
How is it done
A 4D ultrasound is normally realised through the stomach. First a gell is applied that will allow the soundwaves to be transmitted clearly, then the transductor is passed over the stomach and passes back the sound waves to a computer that translates them into precise, real time images of the fetus. At the end of the test as well as the report and photo, we give the parents a CD containing all the images and movements of their baby.
The low energy used for an ultrasound, that lasts between 30 and 45 minutes, is totally harmless to the fetus, it is recommended that it is performed between 26 and 30 weeks.
Available in Cartagena, Murcia and San Javier
High Definition Doppler Ultrasound
Available in Cartagena, Murcia and San Javier
Reproductive Medicine
This field of medicine specialises in the diagnosis and the various reproductive techniques that are available when there are problems with natural conception and pregnancy, normally known as infertility
What is its purpose
To find solutions to a couple’s infertility problems. The main objective of reproductive medicine is to use studies and specific treatments to solve the problems of couples who are having problems conceiving.
How is it done
When a pregnancy has not occurred naturally after a specified period of time it is possible to try the various techniques of reproductive medicine
This requires that the couple complete an extensive questionnaire requesting information on medical and family habits, previous disease history, and if applicable, prior fertility treatment, o that a comprehensive study can be made. At the same time certain medical procedures, such as ultrasound and other tests will be performed, to discount conditions that may affect the fetus.
With the results, which reveal the causes of infertilitywill be studied and analyzed to determine the best treatment option.
Available in Cartagena