Fetal echocardiography: A systematic approach

Abstract

Congenital heart disease (CHD) is the most common birth defect worldwide. The optimal timing for performance of a comprehensive transabdominal fetal echocardiogram is 18–22 weeks gestation. All radiologists should perform screening of the heart during all obstetrical ultrasound studies beyond 18 weeks of gestation. Detailed fetal echocardiography can be performed only with the help of a technically well-quipped ultrasound machine. Skilled expertise and appropriate knowledge are required to perform detailed fetal echocardiography. Despite of limitations, fetal echocardiography can identify most of the CHDs which have major pre- and post-natal implications. This is necessary to delineate the high-risk group of fetuses who are suffering from complex cardiac defects and would require tertiary hospital setup for delivery. This further aids in appropriate postnatal medical as well as surgical management, antenatal parent counseling, and explaining risk factors as well as postnatal outcome.

Keywords

• congenital heart disease
• fetal echocardiography
• procedure