What is a Fetal Echocardiogram?
A Fetal Echocardiogram (Fetal Echo) is a specialized ultrasound test performed during pregnancy to evaluate the structure and function of the unborn baby’s heart. As a leading Pediatric Cardiologist in Mumbai, Dr. Supratim Sen provides detailed screenings to detect Congenital Heart Disease (CHD) as early as the second trimester.
Why Choose Dr. Supratim Sen for Fetal Echo in Mumbai?
- As the Clinical Lead of Pediatric Cardiology at NH SRCC Children’s Hospital, Dr. Sen brings decades of expertise to every scan.
- Precision Diagnosis: Advanced imaging to detect complex heart defects.
- Comprehensive Counseling: If a condition is found, Dr. Sen provides a clear roadmap for the baby’s care after birth.
Prenatal Heart Screening: What to do if your scan shows a heart defect.
During the 18-20 week anomaly scan, the report might sometimes detect a cardiac abnormality in the fetus. Whenever any cardiac abnormality is detected, it is important to do a detailed fetal echo. Fetal echoes are done by pediatric cardiologists, perinatologists and radiologists.
But it is essential to consult a pediatric cardiologist after any abnormality is detected on the fetal echo, to understand the implications of treatment and long term outcomes of the detected heart defect.
This pediatric cardiac consult is important for two reasons:
- Simple cardiac defects which are completely treatable and curable should not be a cause for concern, and the pregnancy can proceed with a plan to treat the baby after birth
- For complex cardiac defects where the outcomes are poor despite timely surgery, the parents can decide whether they would like to continue with the pregnancy or consider medical termination of pregnancy
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When is the best time to get a Fetal Echo?
The ideal time is usually between 18 to 24 weeks of pregnancy.
Is the procedure safe for the baby?
Yes. It is a non-invasive ultrasound that uses no radiation and poses no risk to the mother or the fetus.
Do I need a referral?
While many obstetricians refer patients to Dr. Sen, you can book a consultation directly if you have concerns about your baby’s heart health, and Dr Sen will decide if a fetal echo is indicated.
Book at NH SRCC Children’s Hospital or via the link, the NH Care App
or email me on supratim@drsupratimsen.com for guidance on how to set up a pediatric cardiac video consult.
Dr. Supratim Sen | Senior Consultant Interventional Pediatric Cardiologist | NH SRCC Children’s Hospital, Mumbai.
Clinic: NH SRCC Children’s Hospital. 1, 1A Haji Ali Park. K Khadye Marg. Mahalakshmi. Mumbai- 400034