Abstract
3D and 4D ultrasound (3D/4D US) acquisition and postprocessing techniques have been extensively applied to all aspects of fetal scanning and to fetal echocardiography in particular. While many centers worldwide have adopted these applications, the added value of 3D/4D US to the accuracy of screening echocardiography or the evaluation of congenital heart disease has not been established. 3D/4D US has shown great potential as a new tool in functional evaluation of the fetal heart. It may make feasible the direct assessment of some cardiac functional parameters, such as ventricular volume and mass, myocardial performance and myocardial contraction. In this article, we will review the state of the art and science in 3D/4D US in the screening and detailed evaluation of congenital heart disease.