Northsides Perioperative services’ Enhanced Ultrasound Workshop
The programme is led by experienced Specialist Anaesthetists who boast a distinguished track record in teaching and training staff across various levels of expertise. These professionals have meticulously crafted the programme for both national and international venues, drawing on their extensive experience of over 15 years in conducting these sessions worldwide. Our faculty members are regularly invited to present at international conferences, showcasing their expertise on a global stage. Our unique teaching approach is designed to facilitate the rapid acquisition of knowledge, skills, and sonographic techniques. The course is designed to have maximum hands-on time which ensures participants receive instruction of the highest calibre, tailored to advance their clinical practice efficiently. This is then followed up with practical clinical sessions in OT.

Pre Course Knobology
- Understanding System Controls: An in-depth exploration of the various system settings that affect image quality, including brightness, contrast, and resolution adjustments. We'll discuss how to fine-tune these settings to achieve optimal image clarity and detail.
- Enhancement Techniques: Learn about the different methods available for enhancing image quality. This includes digital filtering, edge enhancement, and dynamic range adjustment. We'll demonstrate how these techniques can be applied in real-time to improve the diagnostic value of images.
- Probe Handling Basics: Introduction to the proper techniques for holding and manipulating ultrasound probes. We'll discuss the importance of ergonomics to prevent strain and injury during prolonged use.
- Understanding Probe Orientation: Learn how to orient the probe correctly to ensure accurate imaging. This section will cover the significance of probe markers and how they relate to the displayed image orientation.
- Optimising Image Quality through Probe Manipulation: Techniques for adjusting probe position, angle, and pressure to enhance image quality. We'll explore how subtle changes in manipulation can greatly improve the diagnostic accuracy of ultrasound examinations.
Curriculum

Yvette D'Oliveiro
Dr. Yvette D’Oliveiro, with over two decades of dedicated service in the field of anaesthesia, stands at the forefront of integrating ultrasound technology into anaesthetic practices. Her distinguished career is marked by significant achievements, including the adept use of transthoracic echocardiography and regional anaesthesia. Her passion for continuous education is underscored by her Graduate Certificate in Clinical Ultrasound from the University of Melbourne and a Masters in Global Health from the University of Sydney.
Dr. D’Oliveiro is renowned for her commitment to education and mentorship, actively participating in the Monash Anaesthetic Trainee Mentor Program to guide the next generation of medical professionals. Her innovative approach to teaching emphasises the critical role of ultrasound in modern anaesthesia. With her involvement in global health initiatives and a steadfast interest in sustainable healthcare practices, Dr. D’Oliveiro not only leads by example in clinical excellence but also in fostering a sustainable future for healthcare.

Sathi Seevanayagam
As the course convener of our Ultrasound Program, Dr. Sathyendran "Sathi" Seevanayagam brings a humble yet deeply informed approach to the forefront of ultrasound education. His qualifications, including a Postgraduate Certificate in Clinical Ultrasound from the University of Melbourne, are a testament to his commitment to lifelong learning and professional development. Dr. Seevanayagam, with his role at The Northern Hospital, Epping, seamlessly blends practical expertise with academic knowledge, ensuring the program is both grounded in real-world application and elevated by the latest research and techniques in ultrasound-guided anaesthesia.
Dr. Seevanayagam's leadership in the Ultrasound Program is characterised by a genuine passion for teaching and a belief in the power of collaboration and mentorship. He prioritises a learning environment where everyone, from novices to seasoned professionals, can grow and refine their skills in a supportive setting. His focus on practical, hands-on experience is designed to equip participants with the confidence and competence to apply ultrasound-guided techniques in their practice, ultimately improving patient care. Dr. Seevanayagam's modest approach to his significant achievements and contributions inspires a culture of humility, curiosity, and continuous improvement within the program.

Catherine Jeyabala
Catherine Jeyabala is a General and Specialised Obstetric Sonographer, with a heartfelt dedication to Maternal Foetal Medicine (MFM) and Foetal Cardiology. Her journey in ultrasound began at St Vincent’s Hospital in Melbourne, where she gained valuable experience in general and emergency ultrasound. She pursued advanced training at Mercy Hospital for Women in Heidelberg. At Sunshine Hospital she is part of the MFM unit, and part of foetal cardiology assessment program.
Beyond her clinical work, Catherine has been instrumental in developing and delivering obstetric ultrasound workshops in North East and Central Sri Lanka. In partnership with Karina Rodset, a senior lead sonographer at Eastern Health, Catherine co-created a pioneering obstetric ultrasound training program in Sri Lanka, aimed at uplifting the skills of specialists and doctors in training. Her efforts have also reached the shores of Suva, Fiji, where she contributed to the development of vascular workshops for the radiology department. Catherine’s passion extends to teaching and nurturing ultrasound programs not only in developing countries but also within regional Australia.