[Prepartal diagnosis of fetal abnormalities from the viewpoint of the obstetrician].

Over a period of 51/2 years 685 amniocenteses were carried out for genetic and obstetric indications at the University Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Graz. In 39 cases (5,7%) the procedure had to be repeated. Chromosome diagnosis was achieved in altogether 99% of cases. Chromosome aberrations or malformations were found in 25 patients (3,6%). 18 pregnancies (2,6%) ended with a miscarriage or missed abortion up to the 28th week of gestation following amniocentesis. Leakage of amniotic fluid following amniocentesis was recorded in eight women. Seven of these gave birth at term, while one woman had an abortion. No case of maternal injury, bleeding or infection was recorded. In conclusion, when the risk of giving birth to a malformed child is compared with possible complications following amniocentesis there can be no doubt that this procedure is definitely indicated.