Evaluation of fetal cardiovascular physiology in cardiac and non-cardiac disease

Abstract

Detailed assessment and management of abnormalities of the human condition is possible prior to birth. With the advent of prenatal ultrasound, it is now known that many congenital, developmental, and acquired disorders of early life have an onset and extensive natural history prior to birth. Knowledge of this prenatal natural history, a course that is specific to each condition within the unique setting of fetal physiology, can contribute to a better understanding of the postnatal state. Complex conditions of the neonate, infant, and child are best cared for and managed if understood within the context of their origins. This chapter will provide a review of the tools available for assessing the prenatal cardiovascular physiology of a variety of forms of structural congenital heart disease, as well as the impact of a number of extracardiac anomalies and disorders upon the fetal cardiovascular system.