Nine births at Portiuncula Hospital under review including two stillbirths as HSE appoints new team to run maternity services

After several serious incidents in its maternity services, including cases of hypoxic ischaemic encephalopathy (HIE) and two stillbirths, a hospital has appointed a new management team led by Dr. Mark Skehan to oversee improvements. External reviews are being conducted regarding the care provided during recent incidents. HIE, which affects oxygen supply to a newborn’s brain, is notably higher at this facility compared to national averages. Treatment options are being focused on minimizing risks of severe disabilities and improving outcomes for affected infants.

In 2023, alarming incidents in the maternity unit, including HIE cases and stillbirths, prompted the Saolta hospital group to appoint a new experienced management team.

The cooling treatment aims to reduce the life-long impact of HIE, highlighting the importance of timely intervention for infants lacking adequate oxygen at birth.

Read at Irish Independent