Foetal echo

Foetal echocardiography allows us to monitor the baby’s health whilst still in the womb. This scan enables us to check whether the heart is developing normally and, if necessary, take appropriate action.

A child’s health is of the utmost importance, which is why it is vital to respond to any worrying symptoms!

What is foetal echocardiography?

Foetal echocardiography is a specialist ultrasound scan that allows the baby’s heart to be assessed with a high degree of accuracy whilst the mother is still pregnant. It focuses on the heart’s structure, function and blood flow, enabling the doctor to check whether the heart is developing normally. It is a completely safe and non-invasive examination for both the expectant mother and her baby.

When is a foetal ultrasound scan carried out?

A foetal echocardiogram is carried out when a detailed examination of the baby’s heart is required. It is usually performed between the 18th and 24th weeks of pregnancy, when the heart’s structures are sufficiently developed to be clearly seen on an ultrasound scan.

 

Indications for a foetal ultrasound include, amongst others:

  • ambiguous or concerning cardiac findings on prenatal ultrasound,
  • maternal conditions, such as diabetes or autoimmune diseases,
  • a family history of congenital heart defects,
  • a history of a previous pregnancy in which the baby was diagnosed with a heart defect,
  • suspicion of foetal arrhythmias.

A foetal ultrasound allows us to take a close look at the baby’s heart when the situation requires it – safely, with care and with full attention.

What does a foetal heart scan involve?

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The structure of the heart

A foetal ultrasound scan allows for a precise assessment of the anatomical structure of the baby’s heart – its chambers, septa and valves. This enables the doctor to check whether all structures are correctly formed and are developing in line with the stage of pregnancy. This is crucial information that allows for the early detection of any abnormalities and forms the basis for further analysis.

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The presence or absence of congenital defects

The test enables the detection or exclusion of congenital heart defects, both the more common and the more complex ones. The results are crucial for assessing the prognosis, planning the remainder of the pregnancy, choosing the appropriate venue and method of delivery, and determining any necessary cardiological care following the baby’s birth.

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The work of the heart

A foetal echocardiogram allows the rhythm and heart rate of the baby to be assessed and any abnormalities to be detected. Early diagnosis of abnormalities makes it possible to monitor the baby’s condition and, if necessary, take appropriate medical action whilst the pregnancy is still ongoing.

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Blood flow

The scan allows for an assessment of how blood flows through the chambers of the heart, the valves and the major blood vessels of the foetus. This enables the doctor to check whether the heart is pumping blood properly and whether it is ensuring adequate oxygenation and the supply of nutrients to the tissues.

This information helps the doctor assess whether further diagnostic tests or additional medical care are required. It also makes it easier to plan the next stages of antenatal care and, if necessary, the care of the baby after the birth.

Why should you have a foetal ultrasound scan at INVICTA?

At INVICTA Clinics, safety is our top priority – we ensure that every pregnancy proceeds as smoothly as possible and with the lowest possible risk of complications, for both mother and baby.

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State-of-the-art ultrasound

We carry out foetal echocardiograms using state-of-the-art ultrasound equipment, which provides a highly detailed image in a short space of time. This enables the doctor to accurately assess the development of the baby’s heart.

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An experienced team of specialists

The examinations are carried out by qualified paediatric cardiologists with many years of clinical experience. This ensures a thorough assessment of your child’s health and a sense of security at every stage of the appointment.

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An examination covered by the National Health Fund in Gdańsk

The INVICTA Clinic in Gdańsk carries out foetal echocardiography scans under the National Health Fund (NFZ). If you have a referral, you can have a foetal echocardiography scan carried out on site – efficiently and without any additional paperwork.

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High patient satisfaction ratings

Satisfaction surveys show that 90% of couples rated their visit as 9 or 10 on a scale of 0–10 and would recommend our doctors to their friends.

How do you take the first step?

All you need to do is fill in the contact form or call our helpline and choose a convenient appointment time. If you are planning to have the test covered by the National Health Fund (NFZ), you will need a referral from a gynaecologist.

Our consultant will contact you, provide all the necessary information and advise you on how to prepare for the scan.

During your appointment, the doctor will ask you to lie down on the examination couch and will then carry out the ultrasound scan. At the end of your appointment, you will receive your scan results, along with a description and recommendations for further action.

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Our Paediatric Cardiology Team

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Ireneusz
Haponiuk, MD, PhD

INVICTA Clinic, Gdańsk

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Dr Monika
Opacian-Bojanowska

INVICTA Clinic, Gdańsk

Read what our patients say about us

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Dr Monika Opacian-Bojanowska was extremely professional and explained everything very clearly after the foetal echocardiogram. She put my mind at rest and allayed all my concerns, even though the scan had been booked for the end of my pregnancy, so it was a bit late. I wholeheartedly recommend her – in fact, I’d give her two thumbs up!

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I highly recommend Dr Maciej Chojnicki, MD! He is a very thorough and competent doctor. He explains everything in detail, which meant that my echocardiogram went smoothly and without any stress. I wholeheartedly recommend him!

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I wholeheartedly recommend them. Thanks to the doctors at Invicty, I feel 100 per cent looked after. They are wonderful specialists who have shown the utmost dedication throughout my pregnancy. They detected heart problems in our unborn daughter during a heart ultrasound. They referred us to the best centre in Poland for a consultation to confirm their concerns and recommendations. They provided guidelines and advice. We’re in constant contact; I even get in touch with Dr Opacian privately outside the clinic. I’d definitely go back a second time. Everything is covered by the National Health Fund (NFZ). There’s no difference in how patients are treated, whether they pay or not, and appointments are available straight away if there’s a problem.

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Pregnant women feel well looked after; Dr Chojnicki carried out the foetal heart scan very professionally. I’d recommend him.

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I went to the clinic for a foetal echocardiogram covered by the National Health Fund. The appointment went very well; the doctor clearly explained what she could see on the screen. I’d recommend it.

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Frequently Asked Questions and Answers

  • A foetal echocardiogram is an in-depth assessment of the baby’s heart carried out using ultrasound. It allows for a detailed examination of its structure, heart rate and blood flow. The scan is performed when there are specific indications or when a more detailed analysis of the heart is required. A standard antenatal ultrasound scan, on the other hand, involves an assessment of the entire foetus and the progress of the pregnancy.

  • No. A foetal ultrasound scan does not require any special preparation. You do not need to fast or follow any additional instructions. It is a good idea to bring along your existing medical records relating to your pregnancy so that the doctor can refer to previous scans.

  • A foetal ultrasound scan is usually carried out between the 18th and 24th weeks of pregnancy, as this is when the heart’s structures are most clearly visible on an ultrasound scan. The exact date is always decided by the doctor managing the pregnancy or the specialist carrying out the scan.

  • Yes. The results of the foetal ultrasound are usually discussed immediately after the scan. The doctor explains whether the heart image is normal, answers the patient’s questions and, if necessary, provides further advice.

  • No. A foetal ultrasound scan is a completely safe and non-invasive procedure. It uses ultrasound waves, which pose no risk to either the mother or the baby. The scan can be carried out without any concerns, whenever it is medically justified.

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