3D ultrasound and Doppler angiography for evaluation of fetal cardiovascular anomalies

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To highlight the value of 3D ultrasound in the prenatal assessment of fetal cardiovascular anomalies through offline diagnosis and/or second opinion (e.g. via internet link). METHODS: A retrospective offline analysis of volume datasets of fetuses diagnosed with cardiovascular anomalies by 2D ultrasound was conducted. RESULTS: Thirty-three fetuses with 38 cardiac malformations were evaluated. Mean gestational age at diagnosis was 26 weeks (range, 20-34 weeks). Isolated cardiovascular malformations were detected in 23 fetuses. Extracardiac abnormalities were identified in 8 fetuses, of which 2 had trisomy 21 and 1 had trisomy 18. One fetus exhibited 22q11 microdeletion. Ten pregnancy terminations were performed. CONCLUSION: Offline analysis of cardiovascular anomalies conferred significant diagnostic advantages over 2D ultrasound. 3D ultrasound is invaluable for the prenatal diagnosis and management of congenital heart diseases. It may be used to facilitate scientific cooperation between high- and low-income countries.