Journal of Ultrasound in Medicine, Vol 1, Issue 6 249-251, Copyright © 1982 by American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine
High-resolution real-time sonography of fetal cardiovascular anatomy
R. B. Jeffrey and F. C. Laing
With high-resolution real-time sonography it is possible to visualize
normal fetal cardiovascular structures in a high percentage of second- and
third-trimester pregnancies. At present the optimal view for cardiac
visualization is the four-chamber view, which affords simultaneous imaging
of the atria, ventricles, and atrioventricular and interventricular septa.
The fetal aortic arch can be readily demonstrated in most patients. The
most significant factor limiting cardiac examination is fetal position,
since it is extremely difficult to scan prone fetuses. High-resolution
real-time sonography has the potential to permit in utero diagnosis of
major structural cardiac anomalies and should become part of the routine
ultrasound screening for congenital anomalies.
