What is the primary aim of fetal echocardiography in suspected CHD cases?

• A. Early detection, precise characterization, risk stratification, and planning for delivery and neonatal care.
• B. To measure fetal lung maturity.
• C. To assess maternal cardiovascular status.
• D. To predict delivery date.

Answer: (C)

Evaluating the fetal heart to detect and characterize congenital heart disease and to guide perinatal management is the primary aim of fetal echocardiography when CHD is suspected. By examining cardiac anatomy, valve function, outflow tracts, and overall fetal hemodynamics, the study identifies the presence and type of CHD, assesses its severity, and predicts potential postnatal needs. This information is crucial for planning delivery so that appropriate neonatal care or interventions are ready at birth. Other goals, like measuring fetal lung maturity, assessing maternal cardiovascular status, or predicting delivery date, are not the main purposes of fetal echocardiography.