Prenatal diagnosis of congenital heart disease: the beginning.

Congenital heart disease (CHD) is the most common life-threatening defect in the first month of life. Its incidence is 8 per 1000 live newborns. Fetal echocardiography is used to screen, diagnose, monitor, and treat congenital heart defects and rhythm abnormalities. Early and improved diagnosis can hopefully impact morbidity, mortality, and emotional well-being of the family. Over the past three decades, fetal echocardiography has evolved into a discipline whereby the diagnosis of congenital heart disease has improved survival and in utero interventions. Continued research, improved technology, and broadened expertise will hopefully allow the health care team to provide better outcomes.