Book a Procedure- FETAL ECHO

About FETAL ECHO :

What is Fetal Echo?

Fetal echocardiography, commonly referred to as fetal echo, is a specialized ultrasound examination that focuses on the fetal heart. It is typically performed between 16 and 24 weeks of gestation, but can be done at any stage of pregnancy if concerns arise. During the procedure, high-frequency sound waves create detailed images of the fetal heart, allowing doctors to evaluate its structure and function. Fetal echo is used to diagnose congenital heart defects, monitor fetal heart development, and assess the effectiveness of treatment. The test is usually recommended for high-risk pregnancies, such as those with a family history of heart defects, previous pregnancy complications, or when other prenatal tests suggest potential heart issues. The examination is non-invasive and does not pose any risk to the mother or the fetus.

What is the process of Fetal Echo?

The process of fetal echocardiography, or fetal echo, typically involves the following steps:

1. Preparation: The mother is asked to arrive with a full bladder, as this helps to improve the quality of the ultrasound images.

2. Positioning: The mother lies on an examination table, usually on her back, and the ultrasound machine is positioned to obtain the best possible images of the fetal heart.

3. Ultrasound gel application: A clear gel is applied to the mother's abdomen to facilitate the transmission of sound waves.

4. Scanning: The sonographer uses a transducer to emit high-frequency sound waves, which bounce off the fetal heart and create detailed images on the ultrasound machine.

5. Image acquisition: The sonographer takes multiple images of the fetal heart from various angles, using different ultrasound modes, such as 2D, 3D, and Doppler.

6. Image analysis: The sonographer and a pediatric cardiologist analyze the images to evaluate the fetal heart's structure and function.

7. Reporting and counseling: The findings are discussed with the mother, and any necessary follow-up appointments or referrals are scheduled.

The entire process typically takes around 30-60 minutes, depending on the complexity of the examination and the fetal position.

What is Fetal Echo used for?

Fetal echocardiography, or fetal echo, is a specialized ultrasound examination used for several purposes:

1. Diagnosis of congenital heart defects: Fetal echo is used to diagnose congenital heart defects, such as holes in the heart, abnormal heart valves, or irregular heart rhythms.

2. Monitoring fetal heart development: Fetal echo is used to monitor the development of the fetal heart, especially in high-risk pregnancies or when there are concerns about fetal heart health.

3. Assessing fetal heart function: Fetal echo is used to assess the fetal heart's pumping function, especially in cases where there are concerns about fetal growth restriction or other complications.

4. Evaluating the effectiveness of treatment: Fetal echo is used to evaluate the effectiveness of treatment for fetal heart conditions, such as medication or fetal intervention.

5. Identifying high-risk pregnancies: Fetal echo is used to identify high-risk pregnancies, such as those with a family history of heart defects or previous pregnancy complications.

6. Planning for postnatal care: Fetal echo is used to plan for postnatal care, including preparing for potential surgical interventions or other treatments after birth.

7. Counseling and decision-making: Fetal echo is used to provide parents with accurate information about their baby's heart health, enabling them to make informed decisions about their pregnancy and postnatal care.