July 31, 2025Northern Hospital is proud to announce the introduction of Adrenal Venous Sampling (AVS), a highly specialised diagnostic procedure traditionally available only at major metropolitan centres. With the establishment of this service locally, patients in Melbourne’s northern corridor now have access to world-class diagnostic care without the need to travel to tertiary referral hospitals.
AVS is considered the gold standard for distinguishing between unilateral and bilateral adrenal causes of primary aldosteronism – a condition affecting up to one in 10 patients with hypertension. Accurate diagnosis through AVS enables precise treatment planning, including targeted surgical intervention or tailored medical therapy.
“The introduction of adrenal venous sampling at Northern Hospital marks a significant milestone for our service and our community. It allows us to deliver cutting-edge diagnostic care close to home, reflecting our commitment to expanding advanced, state-of-the-art services in Melbourne’s north,” says Dr Goran Mitreski, Interventional Radiologist, Northern Health.
This advanced diagnostic capability has been made possible through the procurement of specialised equipment for real-time sample analysis and the expertise of Northern Health’s Interventional Radiology (IR) team, who bring extensive experience in complex venous sampling techniques. It reflects Northern Hospital’s ongoing commitment to providing high-end, evidence-based care closer to home.
“I’m proud to introduce our new adrenal venous sampling service — a result of months of dedicated, multidisciplinary collaboration between Interventional Radiology, Endocrinology, and Chemical Pathology. Bringing this advanced diagnostic capability to Northern Health addresses a vital clinical need and ensures our patients and community receive truly comprehensive, locally accessible care,” says A/Prof Terry Kok, Director of Imaging Services, Northern Health.
The AVS unit also incorporates the latest point-of-care testing assays, enhancing both the accuracy and efficiency of sample collection. Interventional Radiology, Endocrinology, and Laboratory Services have worked closely to ensure the seamless integration of AVS into routine clinical workflows.
Dr Kay Weng Choy, Head of Chemical Pathology, thanked Northern Health for supporting the development of this important service, adding, “it is a privilege to contribute to the investigation and diagnostic workup of patients with primary aldosteronism — a condition that remains significantly under-diagnosed despite its impact on hypertension and cardiovascular risk.”
Mr Steven Nikolaidis, the first patient to undergo AVS at Northern Hospital Epping, described the experience as seamless.
“I’d like to thank Dr Mitreski and his team for their professionalism and care during my recent procedure. I was conscious throughout the adrenal vein sampling and appreciated how Dr Mitreski explained each step along the way. He also let me know I was the first person at Northern Hospital to undergo this procedure, which made the experience even more memorable. Watching everything unfold on the big screen, I felt calm, informed, and completely at ease thanks to the team’s support. I experienced no pain, healed quickly, and had no complications. Most importantly, this procedure will help the endocrinology team determine the best course of action for my ongoing care. I’m incredibly happy and grateful.”
By offering AVS locally, Northern Hospital not only enhances patient convenience but also reinforces its position as a regional leader in advanced imaging and interventional procedures. This service delivers the highest standard of care to our community and helps reduce demand on larger Victorian institutions, many of which face delays due to high case volumes.
The introduction of AVS at Northern Health is a timely, state-wide contribution to equitable access and improved diagnostic capacity.
Pictured in featured image: Dr Kay Weng Choy and Dr Goran Mitreski
