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Am J Perinatol 1991; 8(6): 390-394
DOI: 10.1055/s-2007-999423
ORIGINAL ARTICLE

© 1991 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc.

Fetal Echocardiography: Indications for Referral, Prenatal Diagnoses, and Outcomes

Nancy A. Callan, Mimi Maggio, Sandy Steger, Jean S. Kan
  • The Johns Hopkins University Medical School Departments of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Radiology, and Pediatric Cardiology, Baltimore, Maryland 21205
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Publication History

Publication Date:
04 March 2008 (online)

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ABSTRACT

Three hundred three fetuses were studied with fetal echocardiography and 21 were diagnosed with congenital heart disease (CHD). Indications for study, prenatal findings, and postnatal outcomes were examined in all fetuses studied. The most common indications for referral were previous family history and fetal dysrhythmia. Of 189 fetuses studied for these indications, six had CHD. Indications with the highest proportion of abnormal studies included an abnormal four-chamber view of the heart (50% abnormal), fetal hydrops (30.8% abnormal), and polyhydramnios (25% abnormal). Five of 21 with CHD had chromosomal defects and eight had extracardiac anomalies. Two of the 21 fetuses with CHD survived. Present referral indications led to the diagnosis of the most severe lesions, yet reassurance is provided to many couples with normal fetuses. Fetal echocardiography is important in the care of the fetus at risk for CHD.

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