[Fetal ECG and arrhythmias].

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Fetal Medicine
• Pediatric Cardiology

Background:

• Fetal heart rate typically ranges from 110-180 bpm.
• Intrauterine arrhythmias are frequently observed during pregnancy.
• Fetal echocardiography is crucial for diagnosing arrhythmias.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the diagnosis and management of fetal cardiac arrhythmias.
• To outline the clinical significance and treatment strategies for various fetal rhythm disturbances.

Main Methods:

• Review of current literature on fetal echocardiography and arrhythmias.
• Analysis of diagnostic criteria and therapeutic approaches for fetal tachycardias and bradycardias.

Main Results:

• Premature atrial contractions are common and usually benign.
• Intrauterine bradycardias stem from sinus node dysfunction or AV block; complete heart block may be irreversible.
• Intrauterine tachycardias, often supraventricular tachycardia or atrial flutter, are treatable with antiarrhythmic medication.

Conclusions:

• Accurate diagnosis via fetal echocardiography is essential for managing fetal arrhythmias.
• Treatment strategies vary from observation for benign arrhythmias to medication and pacemaker implantation for severe cases.
• Early intervention can prevent hemodynamic deterioration and improve outcomes for newborns with cardiac rhythm disturbances.