Fetal Echocardiogram

WhatsApp Image 2025-02-24 at 4.48.24 PM (2)

WhatsApp Image 2025-02-24 at 4.48.24 PM (1)

WhatsApp Image 2025-02-24 at 4.48.23 PM (1)

WhatsApp Image 2025-02-24 at 4.48.22 PM (2)

WhatsApp Image 2025-02-24 at 4.48.22 PM (1)

WhatsApp Image 2025-02-24 at 4.48.21 PM (1)

Fetal Echocardiography

Incidence of congenital heart disease in India is 1/100 live births. Many of these remain undiagnosed in pregnancy and become evident only at birth or in the first year of life. Of these, approximately 20% may require urgent treatment. It is possible to diagnose congenital heart disease in fetal life itself using fetal echocardiography in expert hands.

What is Fetal Echocardiography

It is a test similar to ultrasound. It allows the doctor to see structure and function of the baby’s heart in detail. It also enables the doctor to see blood flow through fetal heart and cardiac rhythm. The scan is done by a radiologist or a fetal medicine specialist.

Timing of Fetal Echocardiography

Fetal echocardiography is ideally done after 20 weeks period of gestation or around 5th month of pregnancy. It can be done till third trimester however ideal time is 20-24 weeks. In later pregnancy fetal position and shadowing by fetal spine / limbs may prevent us from getting optimal cardiac images.

Instructions for Fetal Echocardiography

It is done similar to other pregnancy scans. There is generally no need of drinking water or filling up the urinary bladder. The scan usually takes approximately 30 minutes -2 hours depending on position of the baby. If the baby position is unfavourable for the scan , we may have to rescan after some time. Scan is generally done transabdominally.

Who Needs Fetal Echocardiography

First trimester scan showing abnormalities like increased nuchal translucency, tricuspid regurgitation or ductus venosus a-wave reversal
As second opinion if previous tests are inconclusive or any suspicion of cardiac abnormality in routine pregnancy scan
Family history of heart disease
Previous child with heart disease
Twin pregnancy
Diabetes Mellitus / Gestational Diabetes
Autoimmune disorders like SLE
History of drugs like antiepileptics or antipsychotics by mother

Utility of Fetal Echocardiography

Detecting some surgically correctable heart diseases in the fetal period helps us guide the couple for delivery in a proper tertiary care set up with pediatric ICU care.
Some complex congenital heart diseases like hypoplastic left heart syndrome may have a poor outcome with palliative treatment only available. In such cases informed choice of termination can be given to the parents.
Some congenital heart diseases may also be associated with chromosomal malformations / genetic disorders, in such cases we can offer invasive testing in the interest of guiding the couple for future pregnancies.
Certain rhythm abnormalities can be a first pointer for autoimmune diseases like systemic lupus erythematosus.

Are there any risks associated with Fetal Echocardiography

There are no known risks with fetal echocardiography as it is done with ultrasound which does not involve radiation.

How is a fetal echocardiogram different from a standard ultrasound?

A fetal echocardiogram focuses specifically on the fetal heart, providing a detailed examination of its structure and function. In contrast, a standard ultrasound assesses overall fetal development and growth.

Will I need to do anything to prepare for the exam?

No Fasting required. It is preferred that you have your meal done.

How long does a fetal echocardiogram take?

The procedure typically lasts about 30 to 60 minutes. The time can vary depending on the complexity of the heart assessment.

AVA Clinics is the only women and family oriented diagnostic centre in Guwahati. It provides exceptional care for expectant mothers and nurtures family health.

Quick Links

Contact Details

Make Appointment

Call Us

069010 63636

Experience quality healthcare in Guwahati. Book an appointment today.

AVA Clinic