This is a specialized ultrasound that focuses primarily on the detailed evaluation of fetal heart. Congenital heart disease is seen in approximately 1% of live births. Most cases (90%) have no associated risk factors and are usually suspected during the anatomy ultrasound at 20 weeks.

Accurate identification of fetal heart malformations offers clinical benefit for birth planning and newborn outcomes. Some malformations may require immediate attention at birth and in some rare cases intervention prior to birth may be lifesaving.

Common indications of fetal echocardiogram include:

• Family history of congenital heart disease
• Pregnancies that are product of advanced reproductive technology (ART) such as IVF
• Diabetes
• Lupus and autoimmune disorders
• Seizure disorder (Epilepsy), and anti-epilepsy medications
• Medication exposure such as some anti-depressants, Zofran (Odansetron), ACE and ARB inhibitors
• Some identified fetal abnormalities known to be associated with congenital heart disease
• Suspected Down syndrome or other chromosomal abnormalities with prenatal screening
• Abnormal first trimester ultrasound such as thick nuchal translucency and cystic hygroma
• High body mass index (BMI)
• Suboptimal anomaly/level 2 ultrasound

Fetal echocardiogram could be time consuming and should be performed by physicians and sonographers with extensive experience and knowledge of fetal heart evaluation. Doctors at MFAMA have been performing fetal echocardiogram for over 20 years. All MFAMA sites are accredited by the American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine (AIUM) to perform fetal echocardiogram.