Congenital heart defects account for one-third of all congenital anomalies and are the leading cause of infant mortality due to birth defects. All sonographers performing obstetric scans should have a high degree of competence in detecting or suspecting the presence of a major fetal cardiac defect.

Requirements for certification

The requirements for obtaining the FMF certificate of competence in fetal echocardiograhy are:

1. Attendance of the FMF internet based theoretical course on fetal echocardiography.
2. Demonstration of competence in undertaking fetal echocardiography. At present, this practical examination is available only as part of the FMF fellowship program, in London.