Congenital heart defects, though unexpected, are common, affecting about eight in every 1,000 live births.Fetal echocardiography, a specialized ultrasound test done during pregnancy, is key in early detection of these defects. It provides detailed images of the baby’s heart, aiding in early diagnosis and timely intervention. This crucial test has significantly improved prenatal screenings over the past half-century, ensuring the best possible care for the baby.
How Is A Fetal Echo Test For Pregnancy Done?
Fetal echocardiography is a non-invasive procedure that uses ultrasound technology to examine the structure and function of the unborn baby’s heart. Here is a step-by-step description of how the test is performed:
- Preparation: The expecting mother lies down on an exam table. No prior preparation is required like fasting or having a full bladder.
- Application of Gel: A special gel is applied to the mother’s abdomen. This gel helps the ultrasound waves pass through the skin and prevents friction.
- Use of Transducer: An electronic device called a transducer is used. This device sends out sound waves that bounce off the baby’s heart.
- Capture of Images: The transducer is moved around the abdomen to capture the best images of the fetal heart. These sound waves are then analyzed by a machine to create an echocardiogram or a picture of the baby’s heart.
- Completion of Exam: Once the exam is complete, the gel is wiped off.
There are two ways to perform a fetal echocardiogram: abdominal ultrasound and endovaginal ultrasound. The most common type is an abdominal ultrasound, where the healthcare provider places the ultrasound probe over your belly to obtain pictures of your baby’s heart. In an endovaginal ultrasound, a much smaller probe is placed into the vagina to obtain pictures of your baby’s heart.
Who Should Consider This Test and Why?
Fetal echocardiography is a specialized test that is not typically part of routine prenatal screening. It is recommended for certain high-risk populations. Here are somereasons to have a fetal echocardiogram:
- Family History: If there’s a family history of congenital heart defects or genetic heart problems,fetal echocardiography is often recommended.
- Previous Child with Heart Defect: Parents who have had a child with a heart defect are often advised to have this test for subsequent pregnancies.
- Maternal Health Conditions: Certain maternal health conditions like diabetes, lupus, or phenylketonuria can increase the risk of fetal heart defects.
- Genetic Abnormalities in the Fetus: If a genetic problem is found in the fetus, such as during an amniocentesis, a fetal echocardiogram may be recommended.
According to current ISUOG guidelines for IVF pregnancies, it is a good practice to consider fetal ECHO for multifetal pregnancies and those with high BMI.
Disorders Detected by Fetal Echocardiography
Fetal echocardiography can identify a variety of heart defects and abnormalities. These include malformed main arteries, underdeveloped heart chambers, conditions affecting the pulmonary valve, abnormalities in the aorta, and improperly formed heart valves. However, not all heart defects can be detected by this test as detection depends on factors like the type and complexity of the defect, the gestational age at which the scan is performed, and the quality of the equipment used.
How Does Fetal Echocardiography Save Lives?
Fetal echocardiographyis a game-changer in prenatal care. It’s a specialized sonographic technique that assesses the fetal heart while the baby is still inside the mother’s womb. This test is crucial as it can detect life-threatening congenital heart defects in utero.
The early detection of potential heart conditions is vital. It allows healthcare providers and Gynaecologist to plan for necessary treatments or surgeries soon after birth. In some cases, healthcare providers may even be able to treat the condition before the birth of the baby. This early intervention significantly improves the baby’s prognosis.
How to Understand the Results of a Fetal Echocardiography
Fetal echocardiography, typically performed between 18 to 24 weeks of pregnancy, provides a clear view of the developing baby’s heart. The results of this test involve interpreting images of the baby’s heart and providing detailed information about its structure and function. Normal results indicate no cardiac abnormalities, allowing routine pregnancy care and testing to continue. However, abnormal results suggest potential issues with the fetus’s heart or its rhythm. In such cases, further testing may be needed, and you will generally be referred to a specialist for treatment.
Cost of Fetal Echocardiography in India
The fetal echo test price can vary significantly in India. The price typically ranges from ₹1530 to ₹2850. The cost can depend on several factors such as the location, the healthcare provider, and the specific circumstances of the patient. These treatments can be covered by insurance or financial aid. Make sure to check with your healthcare provider to see if the tests are covered by your insurance or financial aid provider.
Why Choose Ankuran Clinic for Fetal Echocardiography?
Ankuran Clinic, located in Kolkata, India, is a reputable IVF centre in Kolkata known for its expertise in conductingfetal echocardiography. The clinic boasts a team of experienced healthcare professionals and state-of-the-art medical equipment, ensuring accurate and reliable test results. What sets Ankuran Clinic apart is its patient-centric approach, where personalized care and attention are given to each patient. Moreover, the clinic offers affordable healthcare services, ranging from IVF, IUI to Fetal Anomaly Scan, making it accessible to a wide range of patients.
FAQs
What is Fetal Echocardiography?
Fetal echocardiography, also known as fetal echo test, is a test that uses ultrasound waves to create a picture of the heart of the unborn baby. It can help detect and diagnose heart defects before birth.
At Which Week Is the Fetal Echo Done?
Thefetal echo test is typically performed in the second trimester, ideally between 18 to 24 weeks of pregnancy. This is the optimal time as it allows healthcare providers to get a clear view of the developing baby’s heart.
Is Fetal Echocardiography Necessary?
Fetal echocardiography is not done routinely in all pregnancies. It is recommended by the doctor if previous tests weren’t conclusive or if they detected an abnormal heartbeat in the fetus. Other factors such as the family history of heart disease, maternal health conditions, or risk for a heart abnormality in the unborn child may also necessitate this test.
What is a Normal Fetal Echo Report?
A normal fetal echo report means no cardiac abnormalities were found. The healthcare provider will continue with routine pregnancy care and testing. However, it’s important to note that not all heart defects can be detected by a fetal echocardiogram.
Conclusion
Fetal echocardiography is a vital prenatal test that plays a significant role in detecting heart defects in unborn babies. Its ability to uncover hidden heart conditions allows for early intervention, significantly improving the baby’s prognosis and saving lives. Expecting parents are encouraged to consider this test if recommended by their healthcare provider. Ankuran Clinic, with its experienced team and advanced equipment, is a reliable choice for those seeking fetal echo test services in Kolkata, India.
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