The Technique, Results and Risks of Amniocentesis for Genetic Reasons

Summary Amniocenteses for cytogenetic investigations were performed in 219 patients during a period of three years. The amniocenteses were done between the 15th and 21st week of gestation. Significant fetomaternal bleeds were detected in 11 out of 213 suitably tested patients. There was a clear relationship between the site of the placenta (determined by ultrasound) and the occurrence of fetomaternal haemorrhage. In only seven patients did cell culture fail to produce information about the fetal karyotype. Four abnormal karyotypes were found, one a balanced translocation; the three others led to legal terminations. Five spontaneous abortions occurred after amniocentesis. In a further patient the fetus was dead at time of the amniocentesis. A total of 210 pregnancies thus went to term. There was no perinatal death nor any major congenital abnormality.