Huron Regional Medical Center

Advanced ultrasound equipment allows imaging specialists at Huron Regional Medical Center to capture more detail and movement than ever before. w w w. h u r o n r e g i o n a l . o r g welloneconnection 3 Capturing Life in 4-D WINTER SAFETY in Motion Winter is the perfect time to sled, ski and snowmobile. But while outdoor activities are a lot of fun, they can pose certain safety risks. Ultrasound technology uses sound waves to capture images of what's going on inside the body. At HRMC, this technology helps medical professionals diagnose conditions of the heart, blood vessels, abdomen and other areas – and, of course, check on the progress of unborn babies in the womb. Thanks to the recently installed Toshiba Aplio 500 ultrasound system, those images are now more precise, and we can capture three-dimensional movement over time – called the fourth dimension – for a four-dimensional view of what's going on inside. That means new families can watch their babies smile in utero in real time. The Aplio 500 uses precision imaging much like a camera uses autofocus to ignore the clutter and zoom in more clearly on exactly what doctors want to see. Elsewhere in the body, the Aplio 500 uses a technology called Superb Microvascular Imaging that allows physicians to view more blood flow detail than they can with other ultrasound technologies. Doctors can track the tiny changes happening in your veins and arteries as blood travels through the body. If you need an ultrasound test, talk with your healthcare provider about scheduling a 4-D ultrasound at HRMC. For more information about HRMC's diagnostic capabilities, visit www.huronregional.org, click on "Services/Departments" and select "Radiology/Imaging." "Play it safe this winter by bundling up, knowing the rules and taking appropriate precautions before diving into the winter wonderland outside," says Pat Woolridge, RN, BSN, MHA, emergency department director and trauma program coordinator for Huron Regional Medical Center, which is a designated Community Trauma Hospital. "That goes for everyone, whether you're a professional or you're taking children out on the trails for the first time." Woolridge's top tips include: • Wear appropriate safety gear, including helmets, gloves and eye protection. • Dress in waterproof layers. • Plan your route and bring a map. • Carry a radio and phone in case you get lost. • Avoid alcohol. • Perform a preseason check on your gear and snowmobile. • Be careful at crossings. • Learn basic hand signals and use them. • Use extra caution after dark. • Stay with your group and don't wander off. • Supervise young ones. Stay safe! Remember, HRMC's trauma team, surgical specialists and 24/7 emergency department are available in the event of an emergency. For more information about our emergency services, visit www.huronregional.org, click on "Services/Departments" and choose "Emergency Room."

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