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Atrioventricular septal defect in the fetus
1Department of Pediatric Cardiology, Babies Hospital, New York, New York, USA.
American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology
|November 16, 1999
Summary
Prenatal screening can detect atrioventricular septal defects, a serious heart malformation. However, current detection rates are below 50%, highlighting a critical gap in fetal diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Fetal cardiology
- Congenital heart defects
- Prenatal diagnosis
Background:
- Atrioventricular septal defect (AVSD) is a significant congenital heart malformation.
- Early detection is crucial for fetal management and outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the spectrum of disease and outcomes associated with fetal atrioventricular septal defects.
- To analyze the contemporary prenatal detection rates of atrioventricular septal defects.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of all identified cases of atrioventricular septal defect.
- Cases were ascertained prenatally or in infants between 1994 and 1998.
Main Results:
- 49 fetal and 63 infant cases of atrioventricular septal defect were identified.
- In fetuses, AVSD occurred in isolation (18 cases), with heterotaxia (22 cases), left ventricular malformations (8 cases), or Tetralogy of Fallot (1 case).
- 13 of 18 isolated AVSD cases were associated with Down syndrome; 23 fetuses survived.
Conclusions:
- Atrioventricular septal defects are detectable via the 4-chamber view during obstetric ultrasound.
- Despite recommendations, prenatal detection rates remain below 50%.
- Improved prenatal recognition of AVSD is vital for fetal care and management planning.