What Is a fetal echocardiogram?
It refers to a detailed scan to evaluate fetal heart structure and function. During the nuchal scan (11-13 weeks), the anomaly scan (20-24 weeks), and the wellbeing scan (30-34 weeks) also we routinely examine the fetal heart structure and connecting blood vessels. In a Cardiac scan fetal heart is studied in a more detailed manner and each connection to and from the heart is evaluated and measured and also the function of the heart is assessed.
The cardiac scan is performed trans-abdominally which means over the tummy) by Feta Cardiologist or Fetal Medicine Specialist trained in Fetal Cardiology.
Why Should One Have a fetal echocardiogram?
Fetal echocardiogram is recommended for:
- Women with a history or family history of congenital heart abnormalities (1st degree relative)
- Women with pregestational diabetes mellitus
- Mother with autoimmune connective disorders, phenylketonuria, retinoid exposure, maternal infections (TORCH / Parvovirus)
- Baby with suspected heart problem.
- Baby with those with increased nuchal translucency (>3.5mm)
- Generalized fluid collection in the baby (Fetal Hydrops)
- Abnormalities of other structures that could possibly be associated with a heart problem.
- Persistent high or low heart rate (>180 bpm or <110bpm)
- Genetic Abnormalities
- Monochorionic twins
Fetal echocardiogram can be considered in
- Women with a family history of congenital heart abnormalities (2nd degree relative)
- Gestational Diabetes Mellitus
- Teratogenic exposure (Antiepileptics, Lithium, Paroxetine, Antipsychotics, ACE Inhibitors)
- IVF Pregnancy
- Baby with those with increased nuchal translucency (3 to 3.4mm)
If an abnormality is found, a detailed explanation of the problem and the outlook for the baby will be provided to the parents and a plan for the subsequent management of the pregnancy will be discussed.
