Cordocentesis in Chiang Mai University Hospital : 286 Cases Experience

Abstract

Objective To evaluate cordocentesis in terms of indications, results, complications and additional information in this specific methods of prenatal diagnosis.

Main outcome measures Pregnancy outcomes and complications.

Results Mean maternal age was 29.4 years old and about half were second pregnancy. The gestational age of the cases were between 17-37 weeks and 128 (44.8%) were performed at 20 weeks' gestation. The most common indication were associated with haemoglobinopathy, i.e. previous Hb Bart hydrops 82 (28.7%), previous beta Thalassemia entity 77 (26.9%) and 43 (15%) were for chromosomal analysis. Sixty-six cases were detected as abnormal and subsequently terminated. The immediate complication such as bleeding from puncture site or fetal bradycardia were very few. The fetal loss rate was 2.8% while the other obstetric complications were comparable to normal population.

Conclusion Cordocentesis is a useful and relatively safe procedure for prenatal diagnosis.