Detailed fetal heart scan
During the first trimester fetal screening (11-13 weeks of pregnancy), during the screening for fetal malformations (18-20 weeks of pregnancy) and during the third trimester ultrasound examination of the fetus (28-35 weeks of pregnancy), we routinely perform the fetal heart and its connected large vascular assessment.
In addition, a detailed evaluation of the fetal heart - echocardiography is indicated in the following cases
Fetal indications:
- Fetal heart defect suspected on routine ultrasound examination
- Pathology of other organ structures found during screening for fetal malformations
- Increased occipital fold in the 11th-13th week of pregnancy
- Pathological blood flow in the venous duct during the 11th-13th week of pregnancy
- Backflow of blood at the tricuspid valve 11.-13. week of pregnancy
- Fetal cardiac arrhythmias
Maternal indications:
- Family history of heart failure
- Diabetes
- Infection during pregnancy (Parvovirus B19, Rubellavirus, Coxackievirus)
- Use of anticonvulsant drugs
- Autoimmune diseases
A detailed evaluation of the fetal heart is carried out between 18 and 21 weeks of pregnancy, but if necessary, early echocardiography can be performed as early as the 13th week of pregnancy. If there is a congenital heart defect in the fetus, the nature of the developmental defect and the prognosis for the child are explained in detail to the family, and recommendations are given regarding the monitoring of the fetus during pregnancy.
Video. Fetal echocardiography. Dr. Marek Šois