A Fetal Echo (Fetal Echocardiography Scan In Pune) is a specialized ultrasound performed to assess the structure and function of a baby’s heart during pregnancy. This advanced diagnostic tool is typically recommended between 18 and 24 weeks of pregnancy to detect congenital heart defects or abnormalities in fetal cardiac function. Dr. Deepti Mittal, a renowned Fetal Medicine Specialist in Pune, offers expert fetal echo services, ensuring precise diagnosis and comprehensive support for expecting parents. fetal echocardiography scan in pune is a detailed ultrasound examination of the fetal heart. It provides crucial information about the heart’s anatomy, rhythm, and function, helping identify any structural or functional issues early in pregnancy. This non-invasive procedure uses high-frequency sound waves to generate detailed images of the developing heart.

Why Fetal Echocardiography?

The primary goals of a fetal echo are:

Detailed Assessment of Fetal Heart Anatomy:

• Evaluating the structure of the heart, including chambers, valves, and major blood vessels.
• Identifying structural heart defects like ventricular or atrial septal defects (holes in the heart).

Functionality Evaluation:

• Monitoring the heart’s rhythm and detecting irregularities like fetal arrhythmias.
• Assessing the blood flow patterns in and around the heart.

Early Detection of Congenital Heart Defects (CHDs):

• Diagnosing conditions such as Tetralogy of Fallot, transposition of the great arteries, and hypoplastic heart syndrome.

Planning for Birth:

• Determining the need for specialized care or interventions during delivery or immediately after birth.
• Collaborating with neonatologists and pediatric cardiologists to ensure the best outcomes.

Why Fetal Echocardiography Recommended?

While fetal echo is not a routine scan, it is advised in the following cases:

• Family History: Congenital heart defects in siblings, parents, or close relatives.
• Maternal Conditions: Diabetes, lupus, phenylketonuria, or other autoimmune diseases.
• Abnormal Scans: Suspicious findings during an anomaly scan.
• Infections: Maternal infections like rubella or cytomegalovirus (CMV) during pregnancy.
• Medication Use: Exposure to medications that could impact fetal heart development.
• Multiple Pregnancies: Especially in monochorionic twin pregnancies.
• IVF Pregnancies: Due to a slightly higher risk of CHDs in assisted conceptions.

Tips Before Visit Echo Cardiography Scan In Pune:

The fetal echo does not require any special preparation. However, here are some tips to ensure a smooth experience:

• Hydration: Drinking water can enhance imaging quality.
• Comfortable Attire: Wear loose clothing for easier access to the abdomen.
• Relaxation: A calm, relaxed posture helps in obtaining clear images.

Process During Fetal Echo Cardiography:

The procedure is safe, non-invasive, and painless. Here’s what happensd

• Positioning: The mother lies comfortably on the examination table.
• Application of Gel: A water-based gel is applied to the abdomen.
• Imaging: The doctor uses a specialized ultrasound probe to capture detailed images of the fetal heart.
• Analysis: Dr. Deepti Mittal carefully examines the heart’s structure, rhythm, and blood flow.
• Duration: The scan typically takes 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the complexity of the case.

Benefits of the Fetal Echocardiography:

A fetal echo provides crucial insights into the baby’s cardiac health and ensures early diagnosis of heart conditions. Benefits include:

• Early Detection: Identifying congenital heart defects allows for timely planning and intervention.
• Peace of Mind: Reassures parents when the baby’s heart is healthy.
• Improved Care: Enables preparation for specialized delivery and postnatal care, if needed.
• Holistic Pregnancy Management: Facilitates collaboration between specialists for high-risk pregnancies.