[Pediatrics. Advantages of prenatal diagnosis in congenital cardiopathies]. / Pédiatrie. Avantages du diagnostic prénatal dans les cardiopathies congénitales.

ABSTRACT

The diagnosis of a congenital heart disease can be made by fetal ultrasound as soon as the 12th week of pregnancy. The main indications for fetal echocardiography are maternal and fetal. Sequential approach is necessary to precise the anatomy and to elaborate a therapeutic strategy for that patient. For severe heart lesions delivery and postnatal care can be programmed, avoiding thus severe hypoxia and acidosis after birth. The prognosis of these children are thus much improved.