Frequently Asked Questions
What is fetal heart ultrasound (fetal echocardiography)?
Fetal heart ultrasound, also called fetal echocardiography, is a specialized ultrasound examination that looks at the fetal heart’s anatomy, function and rhythm, as well as the major fetal vessels and blood flow. Its purpose is to detect congenital heart and vascular defects and rhythm disorders before birth.
When should the fetal heart ultrasound be performed?
The optimal time is between the 18th and 22nd weeks of pregnancy. In selected high-risk pregnancies an early scan is also possible at 12–14 weeks, followed by a control scan in the second trimester.
Who is recommended to have a fetal heart ultrasound?
It is recommended when a routine obstetric scan raises suspicion of a heart defect or rhythm disorder, when congenital heart disease runs in the family, in twin pregnancies, maternal diabetes, autoimmune disease, certain medications, viral infection, assisted reproduction, suspected chromosomal abnormality (for example, Down syndrome is associated with congenital heart disease in about 40–50% of cases) or maternal age over 37. A substantial proportion of detectable fetal heart defects also occurs in pregnancies without known risk factors, so the examination may be performed in apparently low-risk pregnancies when recommended by a specialist.
How is fetal heart ultrasound different from a routine obstetric ultrasound?
A routine obstetric ultrasound gives an overview of the baby’s general development. Fetal heart ultrasound specifically examines the heart and vessels in detail from multiple planes, performed with pediatric cardiology expertise.
How is the examination performed?
The scan is done through the abdomen using an ultrasound transducer specially designed for cardiac imaging. The heart and the great vessels are reconstructed from multiple planes to evaluate anatomy, valve function, blood flow and heart rate.
Is fetal heart ultrasound painful?
No, the examination is completely painless, does not involve radiation and feels similar to a routine pregnancy ultrasound for the expectant mother.
When should a child see a pediatric cardiologist?
A pediatric cardiology examination is indicated for heart murmurs, chest pain, shortness of breath, rapid heartbeat, fainting, bluish skin discoloration or a previously detected heart abnormality.
What symptoms require urgent medical attention?
Seek emergency care if the child has difficulty breathing, loses consciousness, has a seizure, suffers a serious accident or the skin becomes markedly pale or greyish.
Where does Dr. Ladányi Anikó see private patients?
Dr. Ladányi Anikó holds private consultations through ArchiMedicin Kft. at partner clinics: Wáberer Medical Center and TritonLife Medical Center Hegyalja in Budapest.
How can I book an appointment?
Appointments can be requested through the contact details or online booking systems of the partner institutions. ArchiMedicin does not operate its own booking system; bookings are handled directly by the partner clinics. Publicly funded care is available at the Gottsegen National Cardiovascular Center – Pediatric Heart Center and the University of Szeged Foeto-Maternal Center.
If you have further questions, please visit the Contact page.