Initial fetal to initial postnatal echocardiogram in uncomplicated atrioventricular septal defects: Do significant...

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Fetal Medicine
• Pediatric Cardiology

Background:

• Atrioventricular septal defects (AVSD) are congenital heart conditions.
• The utility of serial echocardiography in fetuses with AVSD is not well-established.
• Uncomplicated fetal AVSD requires clear understanding of postnatal changes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate changes between fetal and postnatal echocardiograms in fetuses with atrioventricular septal defects (fAVSD).
• To determine if serial echocardiography is essential for uncomplicated fAVSD.
• To document changes in ventricular function and valvular regurgitation.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of fetal and postnatal echocardiograms in 57 fetuses with atrioventricular septal defects (fAVSD).
• Exclusion of cases with complex congenital heart disease (CHD) or concerns on initial fetal scan.
• Assessment of ventricular function, atrioventricular valve regurgitation (AVVR), and anatomical diagnosis.

Main Results:

• Fifty-seven fetuses with fAVSD were analyzed.
• No major changes in ventricular function or anatomical diagnosis were observed between fetal and postnatal echocardiograms.
• Atrioventricular valve regurgitation (AVVR) showed minor changes, with 47% having no change, 42% worsening by one degree, and 5% improving by one degree.

Conclusions:

• In uncomplicated fAVSD, significant changes between fetal and postnatal echocardiograms are uncommon.
• Serial fetal echocardiograms may not be necessary for fetuses with fAVSD without initial concerns.
• This finding can help streamline management and reduce healthcare costs.