FE Arrhythmias & Cardiac Function Flashcards

Which echocardiographic parameter is used to estimate fetal cardiac output?

Answer: Stroke volume × heart rate (Doppler-derived)

Fetal cardiac output is estimated as stroke volume (cross-sectional area × velocity time integral) multiplied by heart rate using Doppler echocardiography.

The myocardial performance index (MPI or Tei index) assesses:

Answer: Combined systolic and diastolic function

The MPI (Tei index) combines isovolumetric contraction time, ejection time, and isovolumetric relaxation time to assess combined systolic and diastolic myocardial function.

Which finding on fetal echocardiography suggests cardiac dysfunction in a hydropic fetus?

Answer: Cardiomegaly with cardiothoracic ratio >0.50

A cardiothoracic ratio greater than 0.50 indicates cardiomegaly, which is commonly seen with cardiac dysfunction and heart failure in hydropic fetuses.

Fractional shortening (FS) in the normal fetal heart is approximately:

Answer: 28–40%

Normal fetal ventricular fractional shortening ranges from approximately 28–40%, similar to pediatric norms.

Which condition is most likely to cause biventricular hypertrophy on fetal echocardiography?

Answer: Poorly controlled maternal diabetes

Poorly controlled maternal diabetes causes fetal hyperinsulinemia leading to biventricular hypertrophy, particularly septal hypertrophy.

A pericardial effusion is considered pathological in the fetus when it measures more than:

Answer: 2 mm

A pericardial effusion greater than 2 mm is considered pathological and warrants investigation for underlying cardiac, infectious, or systemic causes.