Fetal Echocardiography in Abu Dhabi

Fetal Echocardiography in Abu Dhabi is a targeted, high-resolution ultrasound examination of the baby’s heart performed at Mediclinic Airport Road Hospital. It is indicated for families with histories of heart defects, maternal diabetes, abnormal routine scans, or suspected fetal arrhythmias.

Who This Page is For

Customized clinical pathways and insights to support our patients and referring medical partners.

Pregnant Patient

Expectant mothers requiring specialized, detailed evaluation of the baby’s heart structure and function.

Referring Doctor

Obstetricians and pediatric cardiologists requiring detailed diagnostic mapping of suspected congenital heart defects (CHD).

Abnormal Screening

Patients with abnormal cardiac findings on routine scans, such as a suspected ventricular septal defect or abnormal chamber size.

Second Opinion

Parents seeking definitive confirmation of fetal cardiac health and guidance from pediatric cardiology experts.

When to see MFM

Abnormal four-chamber or outflow tract views on a routine prenatal scan.
Pre-existing maternal diabetes or gestational diabetes requiring insulin.
Pregnancy achieved via IVF (associated with a slightly higher risk of heart defects).
Family history of congenital heart disease in parents or siblings.
Increased nuchal translucency (>3.5mm) detected in the first trimester.
Suspected fetal arrhythmia (abnormal heart rate or rhythm).

What we do

Detailed visualization of the fetal heart chambers, valves, and major blood vessels.
Evaluation of blood flow velocity and patterns using Color Doppler.
Assessment of the fetal heart rate, rhythm, and cardiac function.
Collaboration with pediatric cardiologists and cardiothoracic surgeons if a defect is found.

What happens during the visit

1

A comprehensive, dedicated cardiac scan lasting approximately 45 minutes.

2

Detailed explanation of the heart’s anatomy and any detected variations.

3

Development of a delivery plan coordinating pediatric cardiac care immediately after birth, if needed.

When urgent referral is needed

  • Suspected hydrops fetalis (fluid accumulation in multiple fetal compartments).
  • Persistent fetal tachycardia (>180 bpm) or bradycardia (<100 bpm) requiring medical management.

Where the service is available

Available at Mediclinic Airport Road Hospital, Abu Dhabi. We receive patients from Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Al Ain, and other emirates.

Why Fetus.ae / Mediclinic MFM

Fellowship-trained MFM consultants certified in advanced fetal cardiac imaging.
On-site direct liaison with pediatric cardiology and neonatal surgery teams at Mediclinic.
State-of-the-art Voluson E10 and SWIFT ultrasound systems for superior resolution.
Comprehensive postnatal coordination, ensuring the baby is delivered in a facility with active pediatric cardiac support.

Mediclinic Airport Road Hospital

Appointments & Inquiries

800 2000

Clinical Working Hours

Clinic times vary by location and consultant. Please confirm when booking via 800 2000.

Specialists Available

Fellowship-trained, internationally recognized consultants offering evidence-based precision care.

Dr. Leanne Bricker MB.BCh FRCOG

Dr. Leanne Bricker MB.BCh FRCOG

Consultant in Fetal & Maternal Medicine

Over three decades of clinical excellence, serving as Chair of Fetal Medicine at Corniche Hospital from 2014-2025.

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Dr. Soha Tohamy Said MB BCH MRCPI, FRCOG

Dr. Soha Tohamy Said MB BCH MRCPI, FRCOG

Consultant Obstetrics and Gynecology, Consultant Maternal Fetal Medicine

Former Department Chair of Obstetrics & Gynaecology at Corniche Hospital with immense experience leading tertiary maternity services.

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Dr. Bernard Nasr

Dr. Bernard Nasr

Consultant Obstetrics/Gynecology, Maternal Fetal Medicine

French-trained MFM expert proficient in invasive therapeutic procedures and multiple pregnancy complications.

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Dr. Marija Hadji Lega

Dr. Marija Hadji Lega

Maternal-Fetal Medicine Specialist, Associate Professor

Internationally trained specialist with 25+ years of clinical experience, renowned for advanced fetal neurology and cardiology.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Clinical answers directly from our specialists to help prepare you for your appointment.

It is a specialized, detailed ultrasound scan of the baby’s heart, looking at the structure, function, and rhythm of the cardiac chambers and vessels.

It is ideally performed between 18 and 24 weeks of gestation, although it can be conducted earlier or later depending on clinical indications.

A routine scan checks the basic structure of the baby’s heart, whereas a fetal echo uses advanced imaging to systematically inspect every vessel, valve, and flow pattern.

We work closely with pediatric cardiologists and neonatal surgeons to prepare a structured delivery and postnatal care plan, ensuring the baby receives immediate treatment.

No, it uses safe diagnostic ultrasound waves (sound waves, not radiation) and carries no risk to the mother or baby.

It detects the vast majority of major congenital heart defects, though some minor defects (like small holes) or changes in circulation after birth may not be visible prenatally.

Getting Here & Access

Our Abu Dhabi hub is at Mediclinic Airport Road Hospital on Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Street (Airport Road), a central location with dedicated on-site parking and step-free access. It is an easy drive from Khalifa City, Al Reem Island, Al Reef, Yas Island, Saadiyat and Mussafah, and roughly 60–75 minutes from Dubai via the E11 (Sheikh Zayed Road). Families travelling from Al Ain or the Western Region are seen by prior appointment so scans and consultations are completed in a single visit.

Insurance & Coverage

We work with major UAE insurers including Daman — including Thiqa and Daman Enhanced — as well as ADNIC, Nextcare, NAS and other networks. Coverage and pre-authorisation requirements vary by plan, so our team confirms your eligibility and arranges any approvals before your appointment. Self-pay packages are also available.

Areas We Serve

Khalifa CityAl Reem IslandAl ReefYas IslandSaadiyat IslandMussafahAl RahaMohammed Bin Zayed CityAl BateenAl Shamkha

Book a Clinical Consultation

Our Maternal Fetal Medicine specialists provide evidence-based assessment, clear counselling, and coordinated care.

Medical Content Reviewed by: Dr. Leanne Bricker (MFM Consultant)
Last updated: August 2026