The Physiology of the Fetal Cardiovascular System
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Course Details
Credit/contact hours: 1.0
Estimated time to complete: 60 Minutes
Publication Date: March 14, 2019
Expiration date: March 14, 2028
Reviewed: March 13, 2025
Description:
Understanding the physiology of the fetal cardiovascular system is an important part of diagnosing fetal CHD. In this lesson, you will be introduced to an overview of fetal circulation and how it differs from post-natal circulation. The function of the fetal shunts and the physiologic principles that govern blood flow and oxygenation will also be discussed.
Note: This course is eligible for ACPE credit.
You Will Learn
- Explain basic echocardiography techniques for the fetal cardiovascular system
- Identify congenital heart disease in utero
- Discuss maternal and placental conditions affecting the fetal cardiovascular system
- Detail methods of detection and perinatal management of fetal arrhythmias
- Identify associated genetic abnormalities with CHD
Method and medium:
Jeffrey Vergales, MD
Dr. Vergales is a pediatric cardiologist who holds a clinical and academic appointment at the University of Virginia. He attended medical school at the University of Virginia School of Medicine and residency in Pediatrics at Rainbow Babies and Children’s Hospital in Cleveland, Ohio. He returned to Charlottesville for cardiology fellowship before taking clinical appointment on faculty as a non-invasive cardiologist.
DISCLOSURE: This individual reports no relevant financial relationships with commercial entities.
