Early amniocentesis: outcome, risks, and technical problems at less than or equal to 12.8 weeks.

OBJECTIVE

It is the purpose of this report to evaluate our experience with amniocentesis at less than or equal to 12 weeks' gestation.

STUDY

DESIGN

Medical records of 936 patients at less than or equal to 12.8 weeks' gestation undergoing genetic amniocentesis between Oct. 1, 1986, and June 30, 1990, were evaluated for gestational age, indication, frequency of needle insertion, amniocentesis complications, and pregnancy outcome.

RESULTS

There were seven miscarriages within 2 weeks of amniocentesis (0.7%), 21 miscarriages before 28 weeks (2.2%), and four stillbirths or neonatal deaths (0.4%), resulting in a total postprocedural loss rate of 3.4%. There were 26 chromosomally abnormal fetuses (2.8%). The spontaneous abortion rate in ultrasonographically normal pregnancies at less than 14 weeks, not undergoing amniocentesis, has been estimated at 2.1% to 3.2%.

CONCLUSION

Amniocentesis at 12 weeks is a viable option for patients desiring earlier prenatal genetic diagnostic information.