Ultrasonography preceding diagnostic amniocentesis and its effect on amniotic fluid cell growth
Nelson, L.H.; Goodman, H.O.; Brown, S.H.
Obstetrics and Gynecology 50(1): 65-67
1977
ISSN/ISBN: 0029-7844 PMID: 876525 Document Number: 112878
Experience with 107 consecutive patients with and without ultrasonography preceding diagnostic amniocentesis is presented. Cell cultures and alpha-fetoprotein levels were obtained on all specimens. Adequate cell growth was found in both groups. The frequency of bloody taps was reduced from 15 to 6.9% and of repeat taps from 6.3 to 0%. Possible complications of amniocentesis which might be avoided by prior ultrasonography are discussed. The use of gray scale or real time ultrasonography prior to diagnostic amniocentesis is stressed.