CARDIAC DISEASES AND THE IMPORTANCE OF FETAL ECOCARDIOGRAPHY

A BIBLIOGRAPHIC REVIEW

Abstract

The aim of this study is through a literature review to describe the importance of fetal echocardiography in screening for fetal heart disease. Since the first report of fetal echocardiography in 1972 by Winsberg, several advances in ultrasound technology have occurred, allowing for a detailed assessment of the cardiac anatomy in the fetus. It is essential to remember that more than 90% of cardiac malformations occur in fetuses without any risk factor. Therefore, targeted population screening, during routine prenatal ultrasound, through systematic observation of the fetal heart, combined with basic knowledge on the part of the operator of its normal characteristics, is the only way for the diagnosis of heart disease congenital diseases can be expanded in terms of primary care to the population. The detailed anatomical knowledge of the cardiac structures, combined with the precise interpretation of echocardiographic images taken during fetal development, allow the early diagnosis of particular forms of congenital disease that have serious pathophysiological consequences. Prenatal diagnosis helps in planning the optimal management of the baby with the choice of a tertiary care center for stabilization and early initiation of therapy.