Diagnostic accuracy of prenatal ultrasound in coarctation of aorta: systematic review and individual participant data meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

To determine the diagnostic accuracy of prenatal ultrasound in detecting coarctation of the aorta (CoA).

METHODS

An individual participant data meta-analysis was performed to report on the strength of association and diagnostic accuracy of different ultrasound signs in detecting CoA prenatally. MEDLINE, EMBASE and CINAHL were searched for studies published between January 2000 and November 2021. Inclusion criteria were fetuses with suspected isolated CoA, defined as ventricular and/or great vessel disproportion with right dominance on ultrasound assessment. Individual participant-level data were obtained by two leading teams. PRISMA-IPD and PRISMA-DTA guidelines were used for extracting data, and the QUADAS-2 tool was used for assessing quality and applicability. The reference standard was CoA, defined as narrowing of the aortic arch, diagnosed after birth. The most commonly evaluated parameters on ultrasound, both in B-mode and on Doppler, constituted the index test. Summary estimates of sensitivity, specificity, diagnostic odds ratio (DOR) and likelihood ratios were computed using the hierarchical summary receiver-operating-characteristics model.

RESULTS

The initial search yielded 72 studies, of which 25 met the inclusion criteria. Seventeen studies (640 fetuses) were included. On random-effects logistic regression analysis, tricuspid valve/mitral valve diameter ratio > 1.4 and > 1.6, aortic isthmus/arterial duct diameter ratio < 0.7, hypoplastic aortic arch (all P < 0.001), aortic isthmus diameter Z-score of < -2 in the sagittal (P = 0.003) and three-vessel-and-trachea (P < 0.001) views, pulmonary artery/ascending aorta diameter ratio > 1.4 (P = 0.048) and bidirectional flow at the foramen ovale (P = 0.012) were independently associated with CoA. Redundant foramen ovale was inversely associated with CoA (P = 0.037). Regarding diagnostic accuracy, tricuspid valve/mitral valve diameter ratio > 1.4 had a sensitivity of 72.6% (95% CI, 48.2-88.3%), specificity of 65.4% (95% CI, 46.9-80.2%) and DOR of 5.02 (95% CI, 1.82-13.9). The sensitivity and specificity values were, respectively, 75.0% (95% CI, 61.1-86.0%) and 39.7% (95% CI, 27.0-53.4%) for pulmonary artery/ascending aorta diameter ratio > 1.4, 47.8% (95% CI, 14.6-83.0%) and 87.6% (95% CI, 27.3-99.3%) for aortic isthmus diameter Z-score of < -2 in the sagittal view and 74.1% (95% CI, 58.0-85.6%) and 62.0% (95% CI, 41.6-78.9%) for aortic isthmus diameter Z-score of < -2 in the three-vessel-and-trachea view. Hypoplastic aortic arch had a sensitivity of 70.0% (95% CI, 42.0-88.6%), specificity of 91.3% (95% CI, 78.6-96.8%) and DOR of 24.9 (95% CI, 6.18-100). The diagnostic yield of prenatal ultrasound in detecting CoA did not change significantly when considering multiple categorical parameters. Five of the 11 evaluated continuous parameters were independently associated with CoA (all P < 0.001) but all had low-to-moderate diagnostic yield.

CONCLUSIONS

Several prenatal ultrasound parameters are associated with an increased risk for postnatal CoA. However, diagnostic accuracy is only moderate, even when combinations of parameters are considered. © 2024 The Authors. Ultrasound in Obstetrics & Gynecology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Cardiac Adaptation and Preferential Streaming in Fetuses with Multiple Nuchal Cords

The echocardiographic monitoring of a fetus with multiple nuchal cords around the fetal neck is important as it may result in cardiac remodeling and preferential streaming, thus affecting the condition of the fetus. The main aim of our study was to assess whether the collision of the umbilical cord around the fetal neck can lead to discrepancies in the size of the pulmonary artery and the aorta in the three-vessel view and to an increase in the size of the heart, which may result from the compression of the carotid arteries caused by the umbilical cord wrapping around the fetal neck. A total number of 854 patients were included in this study and divided into three groups. Group A (control group) included 716 fetuses (84%) without the umbilical cord around the fetal neck. Group B (study group B) included 102 fetuses (12%) with one coil of the umbilical cord around the fetal neck. Group C (study group C) included 32 fetuses (4%) with two coils of the umbilical cord around the fetal neck. The range of the gestational age of the patients considered for this study was 27-40.2 weeks based on the ultrasound biometry and was not statistically different between the analyzed groups A, B and C (p > 0.05). The Pa/Ao index was calculated by dividing the value of the width of the pulmonary artery (in mm) to the width of the aorta (in mm) measured in the ultrasound three-vessel view. We found that fetuses that the fetuses with one and two coils of the umbilical cord around the neck showed significantly higher values of the width of the pulmonary trunk with the unchanged value of the aorta width. Therefore, we also observed significantly higher values of the ratio of the pulmonary trunk to the aorta for the fetuses wrapped with the umbilical cord around the neck compared with the control group without the umbilical cord around the neck (. Moreover, in the fetuses with one and two coils of the umbilical cord around the fetal neck, an increased amount of amniotic fluid was observed, whereas larger dimensions of CTAR in the fetuses with two coils of the umbilical cord around the neck were present (p < 0.05). The wrapping of the fetus with the umbilical cord around the fetal neck may induce the redistribution of blood flow, leading to fetal heart enlargement and disproportion and may be the cause of polyhydramnios.

Ectopia cordis: prenatal diagnosis, perinatal outcomes, and postnatal follow-up of an international multicenter cohort case series

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to analyze prenatal diagnosis, perinatal outcomes, and postnatal follow-up in fetuses with ectopia cordis (EC).

METHODS

This retrospective analysis accessed 31 patients with EC who were either diagnosed or referred to a tertiary Fetal Medicine centers for EC diagnosis in Brazil, Germany, Italy, and Poland. We analyzed prenatal diagnosis, perinatal outcomes, and follow-up in these patients.

RESULTS

Our study included a cohort of 31 fetuses with EC, 4 and 27 of whom had partial and complete protrusion of the heart through a ventral defect in the thoracoabdominal wall, respectively. EC was diagnosed by fetal echocardiography at a mean gestational age of 20.3 ± 8.6 weeks (range, 8-35 weeks). Of the four cases, in which the karyotype was performed, all of them had a normal result (1 - 46,XX and 3 - 46,XY). Five patients showed conotruncal abnormalities and six ventricular septal defects. Termination of pregnancy (TOP) was performed in 15 cases (48%) and seven pregnant women had spontaneous fetal demise (22.5%). Of the seven fetuses that were born alive, four of them died, and three infants underwent surgery. Among these three infants, all of them survived, one was 5 months, 13 years old and 29 years old at the time of study completion.

CONCLUSIONS

Ectopia cordis is associated with high mortality rates and intracardiac/extra-cardiac defects. Ventricular septal defects and conotruncal anomalies were the more common intracardiac defects associated with EC. However, in this cohort of fetuses with EC the incidence of PC was lower than reported in the literature.

Fetal heart biventricular diameter/foot length index as a diagnostic marker of fetal macrosomia in the second and third trimester of pregnancy

PURPOSE

Fetal macrosomia may have serious effects on both mother and newborn, so it is important to correctly evaluate the fetal weight before delivery. Fetal routine biometry, height of the fundus of uterus, interventricular septal thickness seems to be very good but still not perfect. In our study the relation between fetal biventricular (AP) diameter and fetal foot length was elaborated in the 2nd and 3rd trimester of pregnancy.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The analyzed group (n = 423 fetuses) was divided into 2 subgroups: a control group (n = 109 fetuses) with normal biometry, normal heart anatomy and normal cardiac function, no extracardiac malformation, no extracardiac anomalies, gestational age ranged from 17.5 to 37.1 weeks of gestation, born at term with birth weight 3000-3600 g, and a study group (n = 314 fetuses) with gestational age 17.5-39.5 weeks. Among the study group there were 20 patients (n = 20 fetuses) with macrosomia defined as a neonatal birth weight of greater than or equal to 4000 g. The control group was used to generate normograms on fetal AP, foot length and AP/Foot Index. The Statistica 13.3 and Excel 365 software were used to calculate the sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive values.

RESULTS

In control group, the mean biventricular fetal heart (AP) measurement was 23 mm (12.9 mm-38 mm), the mean foot length was 43 mm (24 mm-71 mm), and the mean AP/Foot Index was 0.52 (0.40-0.65). The value of the AP/Foot Index in the second trimester of the control group was 0.53, whereas the AP/Foot Index in the third trimester of pregnancy was 0.51. The use of standard fetal biometry resulted in the prediction of macrosomia in 20%, whereas the AP/Foot index in addition to standard fetal biometry enabled the detection of 65% of macrosomia.

CONCLUSIONS

The AP/Foot Index higher than 0.52 has greater sensitivity and negative predictive value to detect macrosomia compared to standard ultrasound fetal biometry.

Prenatal Echo-Sonographic Parameters in Fetuses Wrapped with the Umbilical Cord in the Third Trimester of Pregnancy

This study constitutes a description of prenatal echo-sonographic parameters in fetuses wrapped with the umbilical cord in the third trimester of pregnancy and demonstrates the practical importance of the umbilical cord collision. Echocardiographic examinations were performed within 6 months, and a group of patients in the third trimester with a mean age of 28.1 ± 0.79 weeks of gestation (p = 0.075) was distinguished. The group included 46 fetuses from single pregnancies with the umbilical cord around the fetal neck and 70 fetuses without the umbilical cord around the fetal neck. The course of the umbilical cord coiling around the fetal neck was recorded by color Doppler. We also conducted a follow-up with the newborns. In the study group, there was an elevated peak systolic velocity of the umbilical artery (UMB PSV) at a level of 44.17 cm/s vs. 38.90 cm/s in the control group (p = 0.004), and caesarean sections were significantly more frequent (54.5% vs. 31.4%). The persistence of the nuchal cord during delivery was observed in 37% of newborns in the study group, while the occurrence of umbilical wrapping during delivery was found in 18.6% of newborns in the control group (p = 0.027). In the studied cases, caesarean sections were 2.62 times more frequent (OR = 2.62), whereas nuchal cords during delivery were 2.57 times more often observed (OR = 2.57). Fetal umbilical cord wrapping in the third trimester of pregnancy does not have a significant hemodynamic impact; however, the UMB PSV might be slightly elevated in this group, and the frequency of umbilical cord collision during delivery and the need to perform a caesarean section at term seem to be more common.

Fetal Third-Trimester Functional Cardiovascular Abnormalities and Neonatal Elevated Bilirubin Level

BACKGROUND

The aim of the study was to analyze the neonatal outcomes of fetuses with diagnosed functional cardiovascular abnormalities, also considering the connection with neonatal hyperbilirubinemia.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

It was an observational study of 100 neonates who had fetal echocardiography examinations in the third trimester (mean gestational age during the last echocardiography was 34 ± 3 weeks and mean birth weight was 3550 g). There were two groups: A: normal heart anatomy + no functional anomalies; group B: normal heart anatomy + functional abnormalities. Hyperbilirubinemia was defined as a bilirubin level of >10 mg%.

RESULTS

In group A, there were 72 cases and only 5 cases despite having normal heart anatomy and normal heart study that presented additional problems. In group B (28 cases), the prenatal functional findings included tricuspid regurgitation (TR) (15 cases, 53%), pericardial effusion (4 cases, 14%), myocardial hypertrophy (4 cases, 14%), cardiomegaly (2 cases, 7%), abnormal bidirectional blood flow across the foramen ovale (3 cases, 11%), aneurysm of atrial septum (2 case, 7%), abnormal E/A ratio for mitral and tricuspid valve (1 case, 3%), bright spot (3 case, 11%), abnormal Doppler flow in ductus arteriosus compared to aortic arch (difference >60 cm/s) (1 case, 3%), supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) (1 case), and mitral regurgitation (1 case, 3%). In group A (n = 72 cases), bilirubin levels of >10 mg/dL were observed in 8% of newborns. In group B (n = 28), bilirubin levels of > 10 m/dL were observed in 46% of cases and TR was present in group B in 53% of cases (15/28 cases). The difference between group A and B in terms of elevated bilirubin levels was statistically significant (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

In the case of fetal normal heart anatomy and normal heart study, a good neonatal outcome may be expected. When fetal cardiovascular functional abnormalities in normal heart anatomy are detected, with special attention paid to tricuspid valve regurgitation, a neonatal elevated bilirubin level (mean 11 mg/dL, range 10-15 mg/dL) may be expected.

Fetal Cardiac Hemodynamic and Sonographic Anomalies in Maternal COVID-19 Infection Depending on Vaccination Status-Polish Multicenter Cohort Study

Most obstetrical studies have focused on maternal response to the SARS-CoV-2 virus but much less is known about the effect of COVID-19 on fetal physiology. We aimed to evaluate the effect of the maternal SARS-CoV-2 infection on the fetal homeostasis with the use of detailed ultrasonography and echocardiography and consideration of the effect of vaccination. This was a multi-center study of fetuses who had prenatal detailed ultrasound and echocardiographic examinations performed by fetal cardiology specialists. The subjects were divided based on the COVID vaccination status (vaccinated women who did not have COVID-group V, unvaccinated women who had COVID-group UV, and unvaccinated women who did not have COVID-control group). We evaluated the ultrasound and echocardiography results obtained. The study group included 237 gravidas from four prenatal cardiology centers. In the group of fetuses with normal heart anatomy, normal cardiovascular function had 147 (81%) fetuses and functional cardiovascular anomalies were present in 35 (19%) cases. Functional cardiovascular anomalies were present in 11 (16%) fetuses in the V group, 19 (47%) fetuses in the UV group and 5 (8%) fetuses in the control group (p < 0.01). There were 56 (24%) fetuses with extracardiac anomalies. Extracardiac anomalies were present in 20 (22%) fetuses in the V group, 22 (45%) fetuses of the UV group and in 14 (14%) fetuses in the control group (p < 0.01). Our study has proved that maternal COVID-19 infection can affect the fetal physiology and mild cardiac and extracardiac markers detected by fetal ultrasonography and echocardiography. Moreover, maternal vaccination results in lower occurrence of these findings in fetuses.

Measurement of the Fetal Ear Length Has No Clinical Value

The long-term monitoring of a fetus with genetic and non-genetic anomalies is still a challenge for prenatal medicine. Ultrasound screening must be based on some measurement ranges, which show the trend of development of fetal body parts in a given period of time. One of them is the fetal ear auricle. This study presents an analysis of the fetal ear auricle length in healthy fetuses to establish normal ranges of fetal ear auricle length. The study group included 132 healthy fetuses. The gestational age of healthy fetuses ranged from 17.0 to 39.5 weeks of gestation according to LMP. The range of fetal ear length measurement was 10.00-40.00 mm with an average value of 23.49 mm. In the group of fetuses in the second trimester of pregnancy, the range of fetal ear length measurement was 18.00-28.00 mm, whereas in the group of fetuses in the third trimester of pregnancy, the range was 16.00-40.00 mm. In order to check the usefulness of this parameter, an analysis of this marker in fetuses with extracardiac anomalies, including genetic and non-genetic disorders is shown. The fetal ear measurement can fall within the normal range even if there are some genetic or non-genetic disorders. Therefore, the fetal ear measurement does not provide any diagnostic value in terms of detecting any fetal genetic and non-genetic disorders, which is supported by the analysis of the data provided in this study. Our study has proved that measurement of the fetal ear auricle is possible; however, its clinical usefulness for perinatal management is currently very limited.

Maternal urogenital infection and fetal heart functional assessment - what is the missing link?

OBJECTIVES

Maternal urogenital infections during pregnancy are worldwide frequent problem. The aim was to analyze influence of maternal genitourinary infection on fetal cardiac function, pregnancy development and obstetrical outcomes.

METHODS

This was a single-center cohort study on fetuses (average at 28th week) in two groups: with maternal urogenital infections (study group n=49) and control group with no infections (n=59). Parvovirus B19, toxoplasmosis, cytomegalovirus, herpes simplex infections, congenital malformations, fetal growth restriction, chronic maternal diseases, as well as patients with body mass index (BMI) >25 kg/m2 were excluded. We analyzed: maternal age, time of delivery, neonatal birth weight, Apgar scores, average time of hospitalization of newborns after birth and several fetal echocardiographic parameters.

RESULTS

The only statistical differences was found for shorter isovolumetric relaxation time (IRT) (40 ± 10 vs. 45 ± 9; p=0.03) and longer ejection time (ET) [ms] for right ventricle (RV) (176 ± 24 vs. 164 ± 18; p=0.01). Thick placenta was observed more frequent in study group than in controls (36.7 vs. 16.9%; p= 0.02).

CONCLUSIONS

The missing link for explanation of these findings was coincidence with thick placenta. This is probably the first observation suggesting that thick placenta (>5 cm) may affect fetal RV function in normal heart anatomy: prolongation of right ventricular ET and shortening of fetal right ventricular IVRT.

The Presence of a Single Nuchal Cord in the Third Trimester May Not Affect Tei Index in LGA Fetuses

(1) Background: The aim of this study was to assess the RV (right ventricle) and LV (left ventricle) Tei index in large for gestational age (LGA) fetuses with a single 360-degree umbilical coil of the umbilical cord around the fetal neck identified by ultrasound in the third trimester of gestation. (2) Methods: The RV and LV Tei index for the cardiac function were measured in 297 singleton pregnancies, and we identified 25 LGA fetuses. There were 48% of LGA fetuses with a nuchal umbilical cord-LGA/NC-larger for gestational age fetuses with a nuchal cord. NC was detected with a color Doppler during a transverse scan of the fetal neck, when the umbilical cord formed a U shape. All fetuses had normal anatomy and normal uterine, placental, umbilical, intracardiac and cerebral Doppler waveforms values for their gestational age. (3) Results: The RV Tei index was significantly higher in the LGA subgroup vs. AGA (0.6 ± 0.2 vs. 0.50 ± 0.2; p value = 0.01), but in LGA fetuses with a single coil of the nuchal cord, there were not any significant changes in the Tei indexes. (4) Conclusions: The Tei index might not be impacted by the presence of the nuchal cord in LGA fetuses.

Maternal hyperoxygenation during pregnancy as a tool in fetal disease diagnosis and treatment

Maternal hyperoxygenation (MHO) consists of giving pregnant women (60% to 100%) oxygen through a facemask and using ultrasound assess or monitor the influence on fetal cardiovascular circulation. This review discusses the findings and the utility of acute and chronic MHO in various fetal diseases.

Longitudinal Surveillance of Fetal Heart Failure Using Speckle Tracking Analysis

Long-term monitoring of a fetus with heart failure is an undeniable challenge for prenatal cardiology. Echocardiography is constrained by many fetal and maternal factors, and it is difficult to maintain the reproducibility of the measured and analyzed parameters. In our study, we presented the possibilities of using modern speckle tracking technology in combination with standard echocardiography parameters that may be insufficient or less sensitive in the context of monitoring life-threatening fetal conditions. Our analysis shows the superiority of the parameters used to assess fetal cardiac architecture, such as the GSI Global sphericity Index, and fetal cardiac function, such as the FAC fractional area change and the EF ejection fraction, which temporal change may indicate a worsening condition of the fetus with heart failure. The significant increase in the parameters of fetal heart size in speckle tracking allows for an improved echocardiographic diagnosis and monitoring of the fetus with heart failure and the prognostic conclusions about the clinical condition after birth. Significant decreases in FAC for the left and right ventricles and EF for the left ventricle may indicate an unfavourable prognosis for the monitored fetus due to heart failure.

Functional assessment of atrial wall excursion and foramen ovale flap tracings in 3rd trimester as predictor of short-term hemodynamic stability in congenital heart defects fetuses

OBJECTIVES

Right atrium and left atrium of the fetal heart play a fundamental role in fetal heart circulatory physiology.

METHODS

Excursion of fetal atria walls and tracings of foramen ovale (FO) flap movement were analyzed by M-mode echocardiography by new FO index to determine fetal and neonatal outcome in the first week and month of life in various congenital heart defects. The study group was divided into 3 subgroups: group A: neonates stable after birth (all on I.V. prostaglandin infusion) for at least 7 days, group B: neonates unstable after birth (despite I.V. prostaglandin infusion) requiring catheterization procedure or early cardiac surgery <6th day of life and group C: fetuses with in utero demise.

RESULTS

The average values of FO index: group A - 32, group B - 20, group C - 12.Schaffe test showed statistical difference of FO index between group A and B (p=0.029) and group A and C (p=0.001), but no difference between group B and C (p=0.24) The FO index of stability was determined by ROC curve analysis. Cut-off point distinguishing between postnatal stability and postnatal instability + in utero demise constituted FO index=25 (specificity 82%; sensitivity 90%).

CONCLUSIONS

Prenatal features of atrial M-mode echocardiography shortly before birth might be helpful to predict the short term prognosis of fetal hemodynamic stability or instability shortly after birth regardless of the type of congenital heart defects (CHD).

Fetal echocardiography and early neonatal balloon valvuloplasty improved overall survival in prenatally detected aortic stenosis over 25 years of tertiary center experience

PURPOSE

This article aimed to present the factors determining survival and prognosis in fetuses and newborns with critical prenatal aortic stenosis (AS) and to present 26 years of tertiary center experience.

METHODS

Study included 87 fetuses with critical AS requiring surgical intervention during neonatal period. All results were expressed as means ± SD, in numbers and percentages. The statistically significant results were those with p < 0.05.

RESULTS

An increase in the number of cases of AS was observed in our center along with a decrease in gestational age of our patients during the first echocardiographic exam. The survival rate of newborns was considerably higher when born in due time (p < 0.05) with body weight > 2500 g (p < 0.05). Balloon valvuloplasty performed in the first days after birth occurred to be an optimal solution in these cases.

CONCLUSIONS

Fetal echocardiography and special perinatal care with transplacental maternal pharmacotherapy in selected cases and an early neonatal aortic balloon valvuloplasty have shown improvement in survival rate. The most dangerous for the newborn with AS was the first week of postnatal life. It is vital to refer the fetuses with AS to the reference centers which offer the possibility of invasive cardiac intervention on the first day after birth, and it might be an optimal solution.

The Causes and Role of Antinatalism in Poland in the Context of Climate Change, Obstetric Care, and Mental Health

Antinatalism is an umbrella term for numerous moral dilemmas associated with procreation. In the past few years, the deterioration of environmental conditions, social difficulties, global worsening of people's mental health, and pandemics have induced discussion about antinatalism. Therefore, we aimed to characterize antinatalists in the Polish population in terms of the frequency and description of the main reasons behind this phenomenon. The cross-sectional study was performed in the Polish population. An online, four-part survey was performed between 19 and 25 January 2022. The study group comprised 1240 respondents. Antinatalists (n = 472, 38%) were defined as people who do not have children and want to be childless in the future, whereas pronatalists (n = 768, 62%) consisted of people who want to have offspring in the future and/or already have children. The opinion that climate change is a significant reason not to have a child appeared twice as often among antinatalists. Additionally, the performed binary logistic regression model highlighted the importance of the fear of climate change as an independent factor facilitating an antinatalistic attitude. Regarding females, the following factors discouraging them from having a child were observed: fear of child's congenital diseases, pregnancy complications, dissatisfaction with medical services, and fear of exacerbation of maternal chronic diseases. Anxiety, depression, and stress were not found to be statistically different between pro- and antinatalist groups. However, further analysis revealed that female antinatalists were significantly more depressive and anxious. Our study helps us to understand why, as mentioned beforehand, around 38% of respondents prefer to stay childless. In conclusion, antinatalism views have become relatively prevalent in society, and its reasons include environmental antinatalism and medical factors, including depression and anxiety. However, better access to medical services and changes in climate politics were not found to be significant factors in encouraging society to decide to have offspring.

Longitudinal functional assessment of atrial M-mode in dextro- transposition of the great arteries fetus may help to predict the necessity for urgent neonatal Rashkind procedure

Six fetal echocardiographic examinations were analyzed and presented with special emphasis on atrial M-mode in one case of fetal isolated dextro- transposition of the great arteries. The only significant changes were seen based on analysis of the new index of foramen ovale (FO) flap movement. Emergency Rashkind procedure on the first day of postnatal life was predicted based on fetal atrial M-mode.

Normograms in prenatal life of stomach and urinary bladder in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy

Aim: The aim of this study was to prepare normograms for the fetal stomach, urinary bladder, and stomach to urinary bladder index in healthy fetuses. Material and methods: The study was conducted based on the data extracted from the database of our tertiary center in the years 2016–2019. The study group, comprising 867 fetuses, demonstrated normal biometry and normal heart structure, normal heart function, no extracardiac malformations, and no extracardiac anomalies. The stomach to urinary bladder index was analyzed in the study group. The examinations were performed with the use of the following ultrasound machines: Voluson E10, Philips and Voluson Expert, with convex transabdominal transducers. Linear regression analysis based on Microsoft Excel was used for statistical analysis. Results: The average size of the stomach in healthy fetuses between the 14–40th week of gestation was 18 mm (8–40 mm), the average urinary bladder measurement was 17 mm (15–42 mm), and the fetal stomach to urinary bladder index was constant: 1.26 (0.09–3.93). Conclusions: The normograms for the stomach, urinary bladder and the stomach to urinary bladder index prepared based on our study group can contribute to an improvement in the accuracy of examination and provide an unified organization of the description of fetuses. These normograms constitute an additional marker for the assessment of fetal condition. A clear disproportion in the size of the urinary bladder and stomach can be helpful in terms of paying more attention to fetuses with untypical features in screening centers.

Functional assessment of atrial M-mode in 3rd trimester in the context of postnatal balloon atrial septostomy in fetuses with simple dextro-transposition of the great arteries

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to identify new functional echocardiographic features of fetal foramen ovale (FO) to predict the need of urgent balloon atrial septostomy (BAS) in neonates with simple dextro-transposition of the great arteries (d-TGA).

METHOD

Single-center prospective study of fetuses, who had prenatal echocardiographic examination <30 days before delivery and fetal diagnosis of simple d-TGA. The subjects were divided according to the need of BAS within the first 24 h after neonatal birth and before arterial switch operation. We analyzed following parameters: FO diameter, pulmonary venous maximal velocity, new FO flap tracings index analyzed by M-mode echocardiography.

RESULTS

Out of 130 fetuses, 12 patients were included. Cutoff value of FO index provided maximum sensitivity (100%) and negative predictive value (100%) and cutoff value of FO index multiplied by FO diameter provided maximum specificity (100%) and positive predictive value (100%) in fetuses with fetal d-TGA in predicting need of urgent BAS.

CONCLUSION

FO index could potentially be used to predict postnatal haemodynamic stability in fetuses with simple d-TGA. FO index multiplied by FO diameter could potentially be used to predict prenatally the need of urgent BAS following the birth.

Small prenatal diameter of the ascending aorta is associated with increased mortality risk in neonates with congenital diaphragmatic hernia

INTRODUCTION

The aim of this study was to evaluate whether selected prenatal markers obtained from fetal echocardiography can predict postnatal outcome in congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) patients. We also aimed to verify the prognostic value of lung-to-head ratio (LHR).

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study group included 29 fetuses with CDH. We analyzed potentially prognostic parameters measured using fetal echocardiography and fetal ultrasound. The assessed parameters were compared between the group of patients with CDH who survived to discharge (n = 21) and the subset of patients who died before discharge from hospital (n = 8).

RESULTS

In survivors, mean z-score for ascending aorta (AAo) diameter was 0.23 ±0.98 vs. - 1.82 ±1.04 in patients who died (t-test, p = 0.0015). In survivors, the main pulmonary artery/ascending aorta ratio was 1.22 ±0.17 vs. 1.46 ±0.21 in patients who died (t-test, p = 0.017). In survivors, the LHR was 1.81 ±0.96 vs. 0.95 ±0.6 in patients who died (t-test, p = 0.019). In survivors, the observed to expected LHR was 57 ±30% vs 30 ±18% in patients who died (t-test, p = 0.018).

CONCLUSIONS

Narrowing of the ascending aorta in CDH fetuses is a poor prognostic factor associated with increased mortality in neonates. Our study also confirmed the prognostic value of LHR.

An investigation of the optimal inter-pregnancy interval following pregnancy with a fetus with congenital heart disease

INTRODUCTION

Congenital heart defects (CHD) are one of the most commonly diagnosed congenital malformations in fetuses and newborns. The aim of the study was to determine whether inter-pregnancy interval (IPI), maternal age or number of pregnancies had any influence on the recurrence of congenital heart disease in subsequent pregnancies.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We found in our database 144 women with subsequent pregnancies after CHD in a previous pregnancy. Each woman was selected according to the eligibility and exclusion criteria. Medical history as well as obstetrics history were recorded. Comparisons of groups with and without a recurrence of CHD were performed. We calculated hazard ratios for recurrence of CHD. We also performed analysis of the impact of confounding variables: maternal age and parity. Missing data were excluded from the analysis. Smoking habits as well as socio-demographic characteristics were not evaluated in this study.

RESULTS

A higher risk of recurrence of CHD correlated with a shorter IPI, with a median of 11 months compared with 24 months for the group of healthy fetuses in subsequent pregnancy. The results were statistically significant. Parity was proven to be an important confounder of the study. Multivariable analysis including parity and maternal age did not affect the confidence intervals of hazard ratios for IPI.

CONCLUSIONS

The optimal IPI to reduce the risk of recurrence of CHD is 24 months. Shorter intervals are related to a higher risk of recurrence of CHD in the next pregnancy and are independent on the age of the woman and parity.

Hypoplastic left heart syndrome with prenatally diagnosed foramen ovale restriction: diagnosis, management and outcome

OBJECTIVE

Despite advances in prenatal diagnosis and postnatal intervention/surgery methods, patients with Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome (HLHS) and coexisting foramen oval restriction still achieve high mortality rates. Our objective was to determine survival predictors and to find answers to, why restriction develops in some, but not others.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective analysis of prenatal history and postnatal sequel of 22 patients with HLHS and foramen ovale restriction between 2008 and 2017.

RESULTS

There were 11 survivors and 11 nonsurvivors. The most significant difference between the two groups pertained to the average time of foramen ovale restriction diagnosis which was 33 weeks for survivors and 28 weeks for nonsurvivors (p = .0416) and the duration of in-utero restriction (9 versus 5 weeks, p = .0213). Twenty patients (20/22) exhibited possible signs of infection.

CONCLUSIONS

(1) Earlier development and longer presence of foramen ovale restriction in the setting of HLHS is associated with higher short-term mortality regardless of the degree of restriction. (2) Ratio of forward pulmonary vein flow to reverse flow (f/r) expressed as a velocity-time integral (VTI) is a good emergent intervention predictor, but it does not correlate with foramen ovale size and maximal velocity, nor does it influence survival rates. (3) Ultrasonographic signs of possible infection of the fetus is a potential risk factor of foramen ovale restriction development in patients with HLHS.

Normal ranges of fetal heart rate values for healthy fetuses in Poland, as determined by ultrasound between weeks 18 and 29 of gestation

BACKGROUND

Fetal heart rate (FHR) is commonly used to assess fetal well-being.

AIMS

The aim was to establish normal ranges of FHR during pregnancy by umbilical artery (UMB-A) Doppler analysis in a healthy Polish population.

METHODS

The study was conducted in a tertiary center for fetal cardiology. Data on gestational age (GA), FHR measured on UMB-A, cardiac problems, and extracardiac problems were collected. All fetuses underwent echocardiographic examination. The inclusion criteria comprised normal fetal biometry and biophysical profile, labels of "normal heart anatomy and normal heart function", "no extracardiac malformations", and no "extracardiac anomalies".

RESULTS

Based on the data from 258 healthy fetuses, a scatter graph with regression line giving a prognosis of normal values for FHR during pregnancy was prepared (95% confidence interval). The regression equation for FHR, as function of GA in weeks, was found to be: FHR (beats/minute) = 149 - GA according to biometry (weeks) × 0.22; (r = -0.1032; P = 0.098); FHR (beats/minute) = 148 - GA according to the last menstrual period (weeks) × 0.16; (r = -0.0722; P = 0.253). The 5th, 50th, 95th percentiles, mean and standard deviation of FHR between weeks 18 and 29 of gestation were calculated.

CONCLUSIONS

We present the normal ranges for FHR measured on UMB-A for weeks 18 to 29 of gestation in healthy fetuses with normal heart function and anatomy. The obtained values may be of value to departments of obstetrics and should be considered important elements of the basic fetal ultrasound report.

Seasonality of Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome and Single Ventricle Heart in Poland in the Context of Air Pollution

Hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS) and single ventricle (SV) remain a significant cause of cardiac deaths occurring in the first week of life. Their pathogenesis and seasonal frequency are still unknown. Therefore, we attempt to look at the genesis of the HLHS and SV in the context of territorial distribution as well as seasonality. A total of 193 fetuses diagnosed with HLHS and 92 with SV were selected. The frequency was analyzed depending on the year, calendar month, quarter and season (fall-winter vs. spring-summer). The spatial distribution of HLHS and SV in Poland was analyzed. We observed a statistically significant overrepresentation of HLHS formation frequency in March: 27 (14.00%) in comparison to a monthly median of 15 (IQR: 13.75-16.25; p = 0.039), as well as a significantly higher frequency of HLHS in 2007-2009: 65 cases (33.68%) in comparison to the annual mean of 13.79 ± 6.36 (p < 0.001). We noted a higher frequency of SV among parous with the last menstrual period reported in the fall/winter season of 58 vs. 34 in the spring/summer season (p = 0.014). The performed analysis also revealed significant SV overrepresentation in 2008: 11 cases (12.00%) in comparison to the annual mean of 6.57 ± 2.71 (p = 0.016). Every single case of HLHS was observed when the concentration of benzo(a)pyrene and/or PM10 exceeded the acceptable/target level. Our research indicates that both the season and the level of pollution are significant factors affecting the health of parous women and their offspring. The reason why HLHS and SV develop more frequently at certain times of the year remains unclear, therefore research on this topic should be continued, as well as on the effects of PM10 and benzo(a)pyrene exposure.

The effect of nuchal umbilical cord on fetal cardiac and cerebral circulation-cross-sectional study

OBJECTIVES

The subject of our analysis is the influence of umbilical cord collision around the fetal neck on the fetal heart function and cerebral circulation.

METHODS

Our study was carried out on a group of 115 fetuses from single pregnancies with physiological course, during the 15th to 40th week of pregnancy. In our analysis, we examined the following parameters: Tei index for right ventricle, Tei index for left ventricle with Tei index components: isovolumetric contraction time, isovolumetric relaxation time, ejection time and cardiothoracic area ratio, middle cerebral artery peak systolic velocity (PS MCA), middle cerebral artery pulsatility index (PI MCA). Gestational age in our study was: 28+2±34. The study group of patients with fetal umbilical cord around neck group (fUCAN) included 38 fetuses (20 males, 18 females). The control group of patients with no fetal umbilical cord around neck group (NfUCAN) included 77 fetuses (43 males, 34 females).

RESULTS

In our study, we found no significant differences in the values obtained: Tei LV in fUCAN: 0.5±0.1 vs. in NfUCAN: 0.5±0.1; p=0.42), Tei RV in fUCAN: 0.5±0.2 vs. in NfUCAN: 0.4±0.1; (p=0.2). Tricuspid valve regurgitation-TR was observed with the following frequency: fUCAN: 7/38, 18% vs. NfUCAN: 13/77, 17%; p=0.8. MCA PS in study fUCAN group was significantly higher than in NfUCAN (40.2±11.5 vs. 32.5±9.5; p=0.003), although other hemodynamic and clinical variables did not differ between the study and control groups.

CONCLUSIONS

The fetal nuchal umbilical cord collision did not affect the fetal heart function expressed as Tei index, at the time of fetal heart examination (at mean gestational age 29+4 weeks). The fUCAN group presented elevated PS MCA, which was not related to other hemodynamic and clinical variables between the study and control groups.

Prenatal Diagnosis and Outcome of Congenital Corrected Transposition of the Great Arteries - A Multicenter Report of 69 Cases

OBJECTIVE

 Congenital corrected transposition of the great arteries (ccTGA) is a rare congenital cardiac anomaly which remains difficult to diagnose prenatally. We aim to investigate the natural history, associated anomalies and the outcome of patients in prenatally diagnosed ccTGA.

METHOD

 This was an international multicenter retrospective analysis of fetuses with a diagnosis of ccTGA from 2002 to 2017. We reviewed clinical and echocardiographic databases of seven centers. Anatomic survey and fetal echocardiography were performed according to international guidelines of ISUOG.

RESULTS

 We considered 69 fetuses with prenatally suspected ccTGA. There was an overall survival rate of 91 % among 54 patients with a confirmed diagnosis. Survival to live birth was 96 % (52/54) and survival on an intention-to-treat basis was 94 % (49/52). The mean gestational age at the time of diagnosis was 25.6 ± 5.9 weeks of gestation. In 7 out of 54 fetuses (13 %), ccTGA was an isolated finding. Dextro/mesocardia was present in 15 cases (27.8 %). Intracardiac anomalies were present in 46/54 cases (85.2 %) with the most frequent anomaly being a ventricular septal defect present in 41 fetuses (75.9 %). Complete heart block was diagnosed in 10 cases (18.5 %). Extracardiac anomalies were observed in 9 out of 54 cases (16.7 %). Prenatal karyotyping of the fetus was available in 30/54 (55.6 %) cases with chromosomal anomalies in 4/30 (13.3 %).

CONCLUSION

 ccTGA is a rare cardiac anomaly often accompanied by a variable spectrum of further intracardiac abnormalities. Accurate diagnosis of ccTGA, which can be integrated into parental counselling, is feasible with a favorable short-term outcome for affected neonates.

Placental thickness in 2D prenatal ultrasonographic examination

Introduction

The placental thickness (PTh) is an ultrasonographic measurement commonly used to assess the placenta. The study aimed to determine selected factors influencing PTh in 2D prenatal ultrasonographic examination. It might have a special value in difficult cases for interpretation when PTh is above or below the reference values.

Material and methods

In this retrospective study, we analysed the results of foetal ECHO examination of 2833 foetuses performed between June 2016 and December 2019 in our single unit. 596 healthy foetuses older than 12 weeks of gestation from singleton pregnancies were enrolled in the study. The following parameters were used in the further analysis: placental implantation site, gestational age according to the last menstrual period (LMP) and foetal biometry (FB); maternal weight, height, and body mass index (BMI) at the time of examination; and PTh.

Results

PTh was affected by its location: posterior 33 mm vs. anterior 30 mm (p < 0.001). Moreover, its thickness significantly correlated with gestational age according to FB (r = 0.386, p < 0.001), LMP (r = 0.369, p < 0.001), maternal weight (r = 0.192, p < 0.001), height (r = 0.125, p = 0.002), and BMI (r = 0.147, p < 0.001), but not with maternal age (r = 0.050, p = 0.219). A linear regression model based on these data explained the 16.38% variability of the tested subjects (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Our observations suggest that maternal weight correlated more strongly with PTh than maternal BMI. For PTh evaluation, it is important to pay attention to the placental implantation site - the posterior placenta was thicker than the anterior placenta. Moreover, PTh variability remains largely unknown; therefore, further research in this field is needed.

Interventricular Septal Thickness as a Diagnostic Marker of Fetal Macrosomia

Serious complications in both mother and newborn arising as a result of fetal macrosomia indicate the need for early diagnosis and prevention. Unfortunately, current predictors, such as fetal biometry, fundal height, and amniotic fluid index, appear to be insufficient. Therefore, we decided to assess the predictive potential of interventricular septal thickness (IVST), as measured at ≥33 weeks of gestation. Two hundred and ninety-nine patients met the inclusion criteria: complete medical history including all necessary measurements—namely, IVST obtained by M-mode echocardiography, fetal biometry, and birth weight. The Statistica 13.1 PL software was used to generate the receiver operating curve. The optimal cut-off point (IVST of 4.7 mm) was selected using the Youden index method. The analysis of fetal biometry abnormalities resulted in 46.6% of macrosomia cases being correctly predicted; however, IVST analysis detected 71.4% of cases. IVST at ≥4.7 mm appears to have a higher sensitivity and negative predictive value (NPV) than routine ultrasound.

Nomograms of the fetal thymus for clinical practice

INTRODUCTION

The fetal thymus may be visualized using ultrasonography (USG) and is typically located in the mediastinum. In the past years, the size of the fetal thymus has served not only as a marker of genetic or heart defects but also as a predictive factor for intrauterine growth restriction, premature birth, preeclampsia, chorioamnionitis or even neonatal sepsis.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A total of 410 fetuses were qualified for the study. Fetuses with heart defects were excluded from the study. The fetal thymus was evaluated with ultrasonography between the 14^th and 40^th week of gestation. After obtaining a standard transverse view encompassing the three great vessels, thymus measurements were attempted, i.e. maximal transverse diameter, circumference and surface area. Linear regression was used for statistical analysis, yielding 3 models, each with a different dependent variable. The confidence interval for each model was set at 80% to aid the comparison with centile grid growth charts for neonates and children. The test was regarded as statistically significant when p < 0.05.

RESULTS

From a total of 410 fetuses the thymus transverse diameter, circumference and area were successfully measured in 410, 320 and 330 cases, respectively. The probabilities are lower than 0.0005 for each model, which means that each model is quite statistically significant.

CONCLUSIONS

The coverage of healthy thymus nomograms in the fetal population may be the basis for the identification of fetuses at risk of hypoplasia or thymic hyperplasia, which seems particularly important from the point of view of the detection of potential inborn immunological disorders.

Unfavorable postnatal outcome with significant dilation of the fetal main pulmonary artery near term

INTRODUCTION

Fetal echocardiography in third trimester is relatively rare reported and there is no data, what is the clinical meaning of the main pulmonary artery (MPA) dilatation in third trimester or before the delivery in fetuses with congenital heart defect. We analyzed the neonatal follow-up in cases of significantly dilated MPA diameter to better understand its clinical significance.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Retrospectively 238 healthy singleton fetuses were selected as a reference group. Consecutive percentiles for MPA diameter according to the gestational age were calculated. In second step, we selected cases whose MPA diameter measured at the level of three vessel trachea view (3VT view) was pointedly above 95th centile in third trimester of pregnancy, according to the obtained data of our healthy population.

RESULTS

There were 11 fetuses, with dilated MPA diameter (range 12-13.5 mm), who had last echocardiography performed at 37.6 weeks of gestation. There were 11 isolated heart defects: 7 cases with HLHS, 2 with d-TGA, and 2 cases with CoA. Mean neonatal weight was 3,345 g, with Apgar score 8-10. About 10 newborns out of 11 had cardiac surgery at the mean 12th day of the postnatal life and 8 of them died on the mean 23rd day. Autopsy was performed in 5 cases. In all of them histopathology reports described pulmonary hypertension in addition to cardiac structural abnormalities.

CONCLUSION

Severe dilation of the fetal MPA before the delivery suggested prenatal abnormal lung development and was a poor prognostic factor. In these cases postnatal pulmonary hypertension should be suspected.

Ebstein's anomaly: epidemiological analysis and presentation of different prenatal management

OBJECTIVES

To present the crucial role of echocardiographic examination in perinatal care and analyze influence of prenatal treatment for neonatal outcome. Furthermore, the attempt to answer the question if there was any relationship between the occurrence of fetal Ebstein's anomaly and environmental risk factors in polish population.

METHODS

Forty-five prenatal diagnoses of Ebstein's anomaly were compiled over the 21-year period (1998‒2018) form our single unit. The analysis included the assessment of maternal parameters (age, past obstetric history, and place of residence) and fetal parameters (sex, gestational age, anatomy, the fetal cardiovascular condition assessed by the CVPS, associated extracardiac anomalies or malformations, prenatal treatment, delivery and follow-up).

RESULTS

The average age of gravida was 29.5 years (± 5.2 years) and gravidae <35 years of age accounted for 80% . There were 43 singleton pregnancies and 2 cases of multiple pregnancy. Ebstein's anomaly was mostly (averagely) diagnosed at 28th week of gestation. Forty-three fetuses had normal karyotypes and two had trisomy 21. Cardiomegaly was present in 91% (41) of fetuses. The average heart area to chest area ratio was 0.56 (± 0.12). In 21 cases, there was only fetal monitoring - echocardiographic examinations and postnatal mortality was 44.4%. In 5 cases, transplacental digoxin treatment was administered and mortality was: 40%. In another 5 cases, only steroid therapy was applied and postnatal mortality was 100%. Steroids and transplacental digoxin treatment were administered in 11 cases and mortality was 63.6%. In 3 last cases transplacental digoxin treatment, steroids and maternal hyperoxygenation therapy were given and mortality was 0%. Cesarean section rate was 49%. Moreover, due to Ebstein's anomaly regional peak of occurrence benzopyrene was deliberated as environmental risk factor.

CONCLUSIONS

Fetal Ebstein's anomaly occurred in our population in healthy young women, expecting their first child and malformation was not related to fetus gender, nor to maternal health condition. Our data can be a new signal for the development of novel treatment strategies in therapy in fetuses with Ebstein's anomaly.

Successful treatment of neonatal atrial flutter by synchronized cardioversion: case report and literature review

BACKGROUND

Atrial flutter (AFL) is a supraventricular tachyarrhythmia. In the ECG tracing, it is marked by a fast, irregular atrial activity of 280-500 beats per minute. AFL is known to be a rare and also life-threatening rhythm disorder both at the fetus and neonatal period. AFL may result in circulatory failure, and in a more severe form, it may lead to a non-immune fetal hydrops. However, with early prenatal diagnosis and proper treatment, the majority of AFL cases show a good prognosis.

CASE PRESENTATION

We report a case of a neonate who was born at 34 weeks of gestational age by C-section because of risk for birth asphyxia, based on abnormal CTG tracing, which had no characteristic rhythms for fetal decelerations. A third day his heart rate was 220/bpm. ECG has shown supraventricular tachycardia with narrow QRS. The administration of adenosine resulted in the obvious appearance of "sawtooth wave" typical for AFL. Arrhythmia was resistant to the therapy of amiodaron. Then cardioversion was performed and the rhythm converted to normal.

CONCLUSIONS

As neonatal AFL might be resistant to conventional pharmacotherapy, one needs to remember about the possibility of electrical cardioversion in the pediatric cardiology referral center. Moreover, CTG monitoring is of limited use because it does not record fetal heart rhythms > 200/min and echocardiography at the reference center is practically the only method to monitor the condition of the fetus with abnormal rapid heart rhythm.

Prenatal Atrioventricular Septal Defect (AVSD) as a planned congenital heart disease with different outcome depending on the presence of the coexisting extracardiac abnormalities (ECA) and/or malformations (ECM)

Introduction: Prenatal atrioventricular septal defect (AVSD) on frequent occasions coexists with other cardiac or extracardiac abnormalities or malformation which may change the prognosis and the management with the fetus and the newborn. The aim of the research was to assess the prognosis and the outcome of prenatally diagnosed AVSD based on the classification which also includes coexisting extracardiac abnormalities and malformations as well as its influence on the prenatal consultation.Methods: It was a retrospective analysis of 113 patients with prenatally diagnosed AVSD. The group was selected out of 871 patients with CHD. Out of 113 fetuses with AVSD we exclude those in whom AVSD was coexistent with other cardiac malformations (n = 41). Extracardiac abnormalities [ECA] were defined as problems which do not require surgical intervention after delivery, they were usually markers of a genetic syndrome. Extracardiac malformations [ECM] were defined as problems requiring surgical interventions after delivery or lethal malformations. All 72 fetuses with an isolated AVSD were classified to one of the three groups: (1) Simple AVSD - (sAVSD) - a fetus with isolated AVSD without coexisting ECA and ECM (n = 6), (2) sAVSD + ECA - a fetus with isolated AVSD, with coexisting ECA (n = 28), (3) sAVSD + ECM - a fetus with isolated AVSD, with coexisting ECM (n = 38).Results: The pregnancy from the groups sAVSD + ECM were, in fact, more often referred to the prenatal cardiology centers on account of the existing ECM (p=.03). There were no differences between the two subgroups in regard to: the mean age of the pregnancy, the mean age of the fetus at the time of diagnosis and during diagnostic testing at the referral center, the gender of the fetus. An increased nuchal translucency (NT) was most often found in fetuses from the group AVSD + ECA (n = 13/23), which was connected with more frequent occurrence of abnormal karyotype (p=.048). The trisomy 21 more frequently referred to pregnancy with sAVSD + ECA than those with sAVSD + ECM (p=.0006). In the group sAVSD + ECM there was the highest number of fetuses small for the gestational age detected -48.65% (p=.01). Most often premature deliveries were found in the group sAVSD + ECM (72.73%). The duration of gestation in the group sAVSD + ECM turned out to be much shorter than that in the group with the isolated sAVSD (p=.01) and sAVSD + ECA (p=.03). The lowest Apgar score was in the newborns from the group sAVSD + ECM (p=.002). Longer period of gestation was connected with the higher score on Apgar scale (R = 0.541; p=.001). The average delivery weight of the newborns was the lowest in the group sAVSD + ECM (p=.04). sAVSD + ECM was connected with the significantly higher death rate than the isolated sAVSD (p=.0047) or sAVSD + ECA (p<.00001). The fatality rate of the newborns/ fetuses from the pregnancies lasting less than 37 weeks turned out to be much higher than in the case of the remaining pregnancies (sAVSD p=.002).Conclusions: (1) The majority of fetuses with AVSD remained the patients of just obstetricians and prenatal cardiologists because of highly heterogeneous of the coexisting malformations and abnormalities and since they perish in the period of fetal or neonatal life usually they are not seen by the pediatricians or cardiac surgeons. (2) The classification of the AVSD in fetus to a particular group of the prognostic classification of the fetal heart defects helps to plan perinatal management and supplies information regarding the prognosis. (3) The highest mortality rate was in a group of AVSD + ECM, probably due to shorter time of pregnancy duration, fetuses grow restriction and low Apgar score in 1 minute of life.

Gradual diagnosis and clinical importance of prenatally detected persistent left superior vena cava with absent right superior vena cava - a case report and literature review

Persistent left superior vena cava is a malformation of cardinal veins. We report a case of a secundigravida who had many fetal ultrasound examinations – first performed by an obstetrician (who described fetal mediastinum as “abnormal”), second by other obstetrician, who performed basic fetal echocardiographic examination and diagnosed persistent left superior vena cava. The woman was referred to a tertiary center for detailed fetal echocardiography. The diagnosis of persistent left superior vena cava with agenesis of the right superior vena cava was confirmed. The anomaly had no influence on fetal hemodynamic stability, fetal life, delivery and early postnatal period. After delivery, the neonate was under observation for further anomalies, aortic coarctation in particular. Prenatal and postnatal management was summarized. Literature review is presented.

Detection screening and seasonality evaluation of hypoplastic left heart syndrome in the polish national registry for fetal cardiac anomalies from the years 2004 to 2016

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the incidence of hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS) and the efficiency of the screening program using data from the Polish National Registry for Fetal Cardiac Anomalies. To investigate whether HLHS incident rates in Poland are seasonally variable.

METHODS

Data on 791 cases of HLHS from the Registry collected between 2004 and 2016 was analyzed.

RESULTS

The median gestational age for the 734 cases of HLHS detected was 23 weeks. Comparing the age at time of HLHS detection between 2004 and 2016, a decrease from 26 to 20.8 weeks was observed. We noted a rapid increase in HLHS incidence during the initial years of the Registry data, the annual percentage change during that period was 22.0% and this trend lasted until 2010. In the following years, the Registry became representative of the general population which has an estimated incidence of HLHS of 20.93 cases per 100 000 live births. We observed no clear seasonal patterns of HLHS incidence in our population.

CONCLUSION

The Registry reached a plateau state in terms of diagnosing new cases of HLHS. No evidence of seasonality has been noted. The average gestational age of patients identified as having HLHS decreased significantly during the study period.

Retrospective cohort study of prenatally and postnatally diagnosed coarctation of the aorta (CoA): prenatal diagnosis improve neonatal outcome in severe CoA

Introduction: Prenatal diagnosis of congenital heart disease (CHD) leads to improved outcome but not mortality rate. This may not be the case for coarctation of the aorta (CoA). The objective of this study is to estimate the effect of a prenatal diagnosis of CoA by comparing neonates with CoA by the time of diagnosis.Materials and methods: The study included 38 neonates with CoA diagnosed prenatally and 102 neonates diagnosed postnatally. The postnatal group was divided into two subgroups: (1) severe CoA: symptoms of CoA within the first 7 days (n = 43) and (2) mild CoA: symptoms within the 8-28th day (n = 34). The neonates diagnosed more than 28 days after delivery were excluded from the study (n = 25). Severe CoA was defined as CHD diagnosed postnatally with clinical symptoms that presented in the first week after birth. Mild CoA was defined as CHD that presented clinical symptoms later than 7 days of life.Results: Prostaglandins were initiated at lower doses (p < .001) in the prenatal group. Severe postnatal CoA was associated with more frequent Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) visits than mild postnatal CoA (p = .005). The length of hospitalization of neonates with severe postnatal CoA was 10 days longer than compared to the prenatal group, but the difference was not statistically significant. The highest mortality rate was in the severe postnatal CoA group (18.6%) which was significantly higher than the mortality rate in the prenatal group (p = .005).Conclusion: 1. Prenatal identification of fetuses at increased risk of developing CoA may reduce mortality and improve outcome only in neonates with severe CoA (symptoms of CoA within the first 7 days after birth); 2. Prenatal diagnosis of severe CoA was associated with lower prostaglandin doses and lower mortality rate.

Prenatal Detection and Postnatal Verification of Unusual Intracardiac Total Anomolous Pulmonary Venous Connection (Tapvc) in Complex Heart Defect with Dextrocardia - Case Report

Prenatal diagnosis of total anomolous pulmonary venous connection (intracardiac) was diagnosed in fetus with dextrocardia and complex heart defect, which allowed fetal echocardiography monitoring, planning the time and place for delivery as well as early cardiac surgery. The differences between prenatal and postnatal evaluations were underlined. Despite life treathening condition neonate was asymptomatic without any heart murmur for the first 3 days after delivery.

Extraordinary Bulging Mass in the Foetus - A Case Report of Bladder Exstrophy

INTRODUCTION: Prenatal diagnosis of bladder exstrophy is extremley rare and difficult. BACKGROUND: Due to abnormal development of the cloacal membrane there is an incomplete closure of the lower abdominal wall, absence of the anterior wall of the bladder and external exposition of the posterior wall. The pubic bones are usually separated, the umbilical cord low inserted and there is abnormal external genitalia development. CASE REPORT: At 21st week of gestation of 39-year-old multigravida multipara referred by a primary care obstetrician to high-specialised centre for a detailed ultrasound examination with a suspicion of bladder absence and inferior umbilical localisation. At 29 weeks of gestation presence of bulging mass of 2 cm, between the umbilical outlet and labia was detected. At 31 weeks of gestation previously detected structure among thighs had 3 cm diameter with lateral umbilical outlet. Major labia were prominent and minor labia were within normal limits. Between two umbilical arteries with an appropriate intraabdominal course there were no transsonic area corresponding to the urinary bladder. The newborn baby was born at term in a good condition, but with an exposed bladder of 4 cm in diameter. The urethral outlet was not visualised and the female genitals were abnormal. After a month the girl underwent primary bladder exstrophy closure. Although she suffers from recurring urinary tract infections, she is in a good general condition. CONCLUSIONS: Due to prenatal diagnostics it was possible to detect and make an initial diagnosis of severe malformation. Early diagnosis allowed to prepare parents for a newborn with a defect and teach them how to take care of the baby.

Isolated Double Aortic Arch (Daa) – Prenatal Detection with Postnatal Follow-Up, Case Report and Literature Review

This case report presents a prenatal diagnosis with postnatal confirmation (by angio CT and computer reconstruction) of an isolated double aortic arch, with no blood disturbances and with no clinical symptoms after birth. Literature review was focusing on the possible symptoms in the future. Prenatal findings should be forwarded to neonatologist and pediatrician despite clinical silence.

Prenatal Microcephaly and Hydrocephalus and Normal Heart Anatomy, Postnatal Diagnosis of Nijmegen Syndrome - Case Report

Nijmengen breakage syndrome is a rare autosomal condition mainly characterized by microcephaly. Patients are predisposed to malignancies due to combined immunodeficiency. The presented patient had prenatally diagnosed microcephaly with atypical ventriculomegaly of occipital horns. Fetal echocardiography showed a normal fetal heart anatomy. Diagnosis of Nijmengen syndrome was confirmed postnatally. The differential diagnosis of fetal microcephaly should take into account intrauterine infections, perinatal brain injury, congenital malformations or biological variants.

Assessment of nasal and oral flow of amniotic fluid in 46 non-anomalous fetuses with sonographic and echocardiographic examination

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the paper was to assess nasal and oral amniotic fluid flows, with the use of color ultrasound and spectral Doppler, in normal fetuses.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Forty-six fetuses of singleton gestations were studied prospectively. Spectrum imaging and maximal nasal fluid flow velocities were described. Episodes of regurgitation (external flow from the mouth), swallowing (internal flow at the level of oropharynx and then entrance to the esophagus) were evaluated in two groups: Fetuses < 27 weeks of gestation and 27 weeks of gestation and older. Statistical analysis was done using Fischer exact test and t-test at p = 0.05.

RESULTS

Twenty-one fetuses were < 27 weeks of gestational age and presented mean maximal both inspiratory and expiratory nasal fluid flow velocities significantly lower than twenty-five fetuses who were ≥ 27 weeks of gestational age (p = 0.035 and p = 0.031 respectively, t-test). Episodes of regurgitation were observed more frequently in group of "younger" fetuses (p = 0.006, Fischer exact test). There was no statistically significant relationship between irregular nasal flow spectrum by color Doppler and gestational age group (p = 0.264, Fischer exact test).

CONCLUSIONS

Episodes of regurgitation occurred in normal fetuses < 27th week of gestation. Fast amniotic nasal fluid flows without episodes of regurgitation were observed more frequently in fetuses ≥ 27 weeks and it could be interpreted as an additional sonographic feature of prenatal maturation.

Congenital Heart Defects Coexisting with Omphalocele - the Important Prognostic Factor

Introduction: The aim of this study was to evaluate the following parameters of fetuses and neonates with omphalocele: the prevalence of coexisting congenital heart defects (CHD), abnormalities in heart function and the impact of coexisting CHD on fetal and neonatal survival. Material and methods: The study group consisted of 69 fetuses with omphalocele diagnosed and monitored at the Department of Prenatal Cardiology in our Institute in the years 2007-2017. The retrospective analisis of patients' data was performed. For statistical analysis we used Chi-square test, t-Student test and U Mann-Whitney test.. Results: In the studied group omphalocele was an isolated defect in 31.9% of the cases (22/69), in 68.1% (47/69) coexisting defects were present, in 49.3% (34/69) the coexisting defect was CHD. The most common CHD coexisting with omphalocele were ventricular septal defect (VSD), double outlet right ventricle (DORV) and atrio-ventricular septal defect (AVSD). Abnormalities of heart function were present in 43.5% (30/69) of fetuses with omphalocele: 23.5% (8/34) with normal heart anatomy and in 62.9% (22/35) with CHD. Statistically significant differences between the group with normal heart anatomy and the group with CHD regarded: Cardiovascular Profile Score (CVPS) (median 10 points vs median 9 points, U Mann-Whitney test p=0.034), neonatal birth weight(mean 3253 g vs median 2700 g, U Mann-Whitney test p=0.003), Apgar score (median 8 vs median 7, U Mann-Whitney test p=0.038) and survival rate until discharge from hospital (85% vs 52.9%, Chi-square test p=0.034). The comparison of data from 2007-2017 with data obtained from similar analysis performed in our center in 1999-2006, revealed significant improvement in the early detection of omphalocele (median 14.5 weeks of gestation vs mean 25.4 weeks of gestation), gestational age of delivery (mean 38 weeks of gestation vs mean 34 weeks of gestation) and survival rate until discharge both in neonates with normal heart anatomy and coexisting CHD (85% and 52.9% vs 70% and 23% respectively) . Conclusions: 1. The presence of coexisting CHD is an important prognostic factor in fetuses and neonates with omphalocele, so early fetal echocardiography should be performed in every case of omphalocele. 2. During the last decade (2007-2017), in contrast to years 1999-2006, we observed significant improvement in early and complete prenatal diagnosis of omphalocele. 3. We observed improvement in strategy of obstetrical management resulting in delivering neonates in a more advanced gestational age both in the group with normal heart anatomy and the group with coexisting CHD.

The practical significance of perinatal cardiology based on own experience

The article underlined the role of perinatal cardiology in contributing to the medical care of the pregnant woman taking into consideration the technical and medical progress which has made it possible to save not only human life but also its quality. The role of correct early diagnosis, as well as correct treatment was discussed and the results of such procedure demonstrated.

The role of perinatal cardiology in saving the life and its quality of fetuses, newborns and children (on the basis of own experience and review of the literature)

The role of prenatal cardiology and the organization of perinatal cardiological centers in early diagnostics and early therapeutic procedures in fetuses and newborns with cardiac malformations and circulatory disturbances was discussed on the basis of the literature and own experience. The possibilities of an early perinatal diagnosis and early therapeutic approaches to cardiac defects were presented. It was stressed that there is a necessity to broaden the educational aims in these areas and in the near future to prepare multidisciplinary teams working together in specialist centers.

Fetal Echocardiography in Uncommon Prenatal Cardiac Anomalies: Right Atrium Diverticulum, Interventricular Septal Aneurysm, Left and Right Ventricle Diverticulum – Report from Referral Center for Fetal Cardiology in Poland

The prenatal detection of congenital anomalies of heart walls is very rare. We present a unique series of 8 cases with prenatal echocardiographic monitoring, treatment and postnatal follow-up, providing new insight into this “mysterious” heart problem