Utility of Fetal Cardiovascular Magnetic Resonance for Prenatal Diagnosis of Complex Congenital Heart Defects

Abstract

Key Points Question Does fetal cardiovascular magnetic resonance improve prenatal diagnosis of complex congenital heart defects when fetal echocardiography is insufficient? Findings In this cohort study of 31 fetuses referred for fetal cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging, additional clinically useful information regarding cardiovascular anatomy and function was obtained in 84% of referred cases, covering a wide spectrum of congenital heart defects. This information affected choice of mode of delivery, planning of early postnatal care, and parental counseling. Meaning These findings suggest that fetal cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging can add important diagnostic information and affect clinical decision-making and parental counseling.