Topography of the Heart: Mapping the Fetal Heart Through SlowflowHD

J Ultrasound Med. 2023 Aug;42(8):1893-1898. doi: 10.1002/jum.16196. Epub 2023 Feb 25.

Abstract

SlowflowHD is a Doppler Ultrasound modality that is typically geared toward visualization of small-size vessels and low velocity blood flow. In this commentary, we emphasize the importance of implementing the use of SlowflowHD as an adjunct to traditional Doppler modalities in the echocardiography screening in both the first and second trimester. This modality carries many characteristics that allow it to overcome the limitations of our current ultrasound modalities and facilitate mapping of the entirety of the fetal heart. The clinical implications are significant in regard to earlier acquisition of diagnostic information to guide decision-making and patient counseling.

Keywords: Doppler ultrasound; SlowflowHD; cardiac morphology; cardiac screening; fetal echocardiography.

MeSH terms

  • Echocardiography
  • Echocardiography, Doppler, Color*
  • Female
  • Fetal Heart / diagnostic imaging
  • Humans
  • Pregnancy
  • Pregnancy Trimester, Second
  • Ultrasonography, Prenatal*