Abstract
Complete brief overview on prenatal echocardiography at the beginning of a new millennium was reported. History and evolution of prenatal ultrasound detection of congenital heart disease (CHD), with specific respect to individual countries / territorial regions, effectiveness of prenatal screening programme, its impact on the outcome of children with antenatally diagnosed CHD was also discussed.
Experience with nation-wide screening programme in a country with well-defined population (Czech Republic) was highlighted. Echocardiographic assessment of fetoplacental circulation particularly in fetuses suffering from congestive heasrt failure due to rhythm disturbances, and intrauterine treatment of tachy / bradycardia was summarised.
Currrent experience with intrauterine interventions, further visions and perspectives of prenatal cardiology, was briefly commented on, with the reference to "Recommendation for Application of Prenatal Cardiology in Europe", and created by Fetal Working Group of Association of European Paediatric Cardiology.