Amniocentesis

General
A procedure in which a small amount of amniotic fluid is taken from the sac surrounding the fetus and tested.

Transabdominal puncture of the amniotic sac using a needle and syringe to remove amniotic fluid. Ultrasound is used to guide the needle during the process.

Uses:


 * detection of biochemical or genetic disorders
 * detection of maternal-fetal blood incompatibility
 * determine fetal maturity in late pregnancy

Risks:


 * miscarriage/spontaneous abortion
 * harm to fetus
 * infection

Common Abbreviation
Amnio

More Information about the Test and its Results
Amniocentesis at About.com [http://video.about.com/pregnancy/Amniocentesis.htm What Is an Amniocentesis? Video at About.com]

Jessica anne010 18:52, 10 October 2010 (PDT)