ABSTRACT
Persistent bradycardia is an uncommon cardiac problem in fetuses but carries a high
mortality in those with a ventricular rate <55 bpm. Fetal heart block is one of the
most common causes of persistent fetal bradycardia (PFB). An optimal method for assessing
and monitoring cardiovascular compensation in the setting of PFB due to heart block
has not been fully established. We report the application of two-dimensional and Doppler
echocardiography in close monitoring of cardiac function and hemodynamics in a third-trimester
fetus with a ventricular rate <55 bpm due to heart block, which assisted in successful
management of the pregnancy to term. Hemodynamic and cardiac adaptive changes in compromised
fetuses, particularly due to heart block, are discussed.
Keywords
Fetal bradycardia - fetal heart block - fetal circulation - fetal echocardiography
