Amrita’s Fetal Cardiology learning ( AFCL) Module – Fetal Heart Hybrid

Introduction and Objectives

The field of Fetal Medicine is rapidly expanding and at the heart of this progress are the advances in the field of Fetal Cardiology. Imaging of the fetal heart was considered as the ultimate challenge for fetal medicine imaging specialists. However, modern ultrasound technology permits us to image the fetal heart with such precision that even the minute anatomic details needed for surgical planning can be evaluated whilst the baby is still in-utero. The unique aspect of prenatal diagnosis of heart defects is its impact on pregnancy and neonatal outcomes of infants with critical heart defects. The expectant family can be counseled and prepared for the future cardiac care so that the best possible outcomes after surgery can be ensured for the baby.

This hybrid course offers a comprehensive overview to the field of fetal cardiology to the learner. The focus is not just on diagnostic imaging, but to provide a holistic approach to fetal cardiac anomalies including hemodynamics of various CHDs, counseling, management and peri-partum care and expectations of outcomes after pediatric cardiac care.

The course is being offered in a hybrid mode – the first 6 months will be online with 4 sessions (once a week) a month. The last week will involve in-person at Amrita Institute of medical sciences, Kochi, Kerala with hands-on simulation and laptop-based training modules. Candidates shall be provided with a certificate of training from Amrita University after completion and a post-training assessment in person. The unique feature of this course is that the attending delegates will get continued support from our experts after finishing the course, for both diagnosis as well as patient counseling, through online platforms.

We are hopeful that this kind of hybrid learning option will benefit a large number of specialists who can enhance their knowledge without needing to take a long break from their busy practice. We welcome your feedback and suggestions that will enable us to update the content in this ever-ongoing process of education.