The Fetal Heart Program at Primary Children’s Hospital was developed to provide the best outcomes possible for fetuses with arrhythmias and congenital heart disease. We specialize in diagnosis and management of heart defects and rhythm abnormalities in unborn babies. Early fetal detection allows for prenatal planning, education, and expedient management after delivery.
Fetal Heart Program
at Primary Children's Hospital
Caring for Children's Hearts
The heart, the hardest-working muscle, pumps nearly 200 gallons of blood daily to keep the body functioning. At Primary Children's Hospital, we understand the heart’s physical and emotional significance. Our Heart Center is recognized as one of the top providers of pediatric cardiac care in the West, with patients referred from across the country. We believe the best way to treat a child’s heart is with heart.
What to expect
A fetal echocardiogram is a noninvasive ultrasound, similar to an obstetric ultrasound, but one that focuses only on the detailed structure, function and heart rhythm of your unborn baby's heart.
Learn more about fetal echosThere are a number of circumstances where you might be referred for a fetal echo. These may include but are not limited to:
- Maternal conditions such as diabetes, autoimmune disease or exposure to certain medications
- Diagnosis of another birth defect or syndrome in your fetus
- Twin or other multiple pregnancies
- An abnormal fetal heart rate
- Family history of congenital heart disease
- If the fetus's heart was not well seen or screening views appeared abnormal during a routine obstetric ultrasound
- Please arrive 20 minutes prior to your appointment time.
- You are welcome to have another adult accompany you for the visit. Please follow hospital infection control and masking policies.
- You generally do not have to come with a full bladder (if you are > 20 weeks gestation). If you are less than 20 weeks gestation, a full bladder would be preferable.
- Please complete the Fetal Echocardiogram Questionnaire form prior to your visit to assist us in your care.
During your initial visit you will receive:
- A fetal echocardiogram which will take approximately one hour.
- A consultation with one of our fetal cardiologists. This consultation will allow the physician to explain the fetal echocardiogram results as well as allow time for questions you may have for the cardiologist.
- Coordination of resources and patient education from one of the fetal heart nurse coordinators.
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Consultations with other services as needed, such as maternal-fetal medicine, social services, genetics, and the Utah Fetal Center.
- If a heart problem is identified on the fetal echocardiogram during your visit, then our team will work with you and your OB/GYN to plan the best care for your baby.