ABSTRACT
Three hundred three fetuses were studied with fetal echocardiography and 21 were diagnosed
with congenital heart disease (CHD). Indications for study, prenatal findings, and
postnatal outcomes were examined in all fetuses studied. The most common indications
for referral were previous family history and fetal dysrhythmia. Of 189 fetuses studied
for these indications, six had CHD. Indications with the highest proportion of abnormal
studies included an abnormal four-chamber view of the heart (50% abnormal), fetal
hydrops (30.8% abnormal), and polyhydramnios (25% abnormal). Five of 21 with CHD had
chromosomal defects and eight had extracardiac anomalies. Two of the 21 fetuses with
CHD survived. Present referral indications led to the diagnosis of the most severe
lesions, yet reassurance is provided to many couples with normal fetuses. Fetal echocardiography
is important in the care of the fetus at risk for CHD.
