Use of free-hand three-dimensional ultrasound software in the study of thefetal heart

Objective To propose a new approach to the study of the fetal heart using f ree-hand three-dimensional (3D) ultrasound software. Methods We studied a total of 28 fetuses, of which 26 were normal and two w ere known to have heart pathology. In all of them a B-mode scan was perform ed. After obtaining a four-chamber view, and keeping the transducer in the same position, the free-hand 3D-View software was activated. A sequence of frames was stored. Additional information was recorded looking from the fou r-chamber view towards the outflow tract, and also adding color Doppler. Results We obtained a multiplanar display of one B-mode and two perpendicul ar M-modes in all cases studied. In this multiplanar mode, Y and X axes rep resent distance and Z axis represents rime. We were able to obtain M-modes and a variation of color-M-mode in any desired position. Moving the informa tion along the Z axis, a frame sequence of the B-mode was obtained. Using t his approach toe observed one case of fetal supraventricular extrasystoles and other having an interventricular septum defect. Conclusions This modality gives a new perspective of fetal heart scanning u sing the free-hand 3D-View software, in which there is benefit from many of the advantages of the 3D software, although the power of this procedure mu st be improved.