Prenatal Diagnosis of Cardiovascular Disease

Technological advances in ultrasound have led to a greater ability to monitor the internal life of the fetus. This has led to fascinating discoveries of fetal physiology as well as to the natural progression of some cardiac defects while in utero. Watching this progression has stimulated the medical/research community to find ways to intervene in those cardiac defects with the highest morbidity and mortality. Although still in the early stages, the challenge continues to be explored in an attempt to stop progression to a more significant defect in utero. This article explores the diagnosis, evaluation for intervention, and the role of a multidisciplinary group in educating, preparing, and caring for these families before birth.