Suprapubic vs. periumbilical amniocentesis.

Amniocentesis has assumed a major and increasing role in the proper management of highrisk pregnancies but the procedure is not without complications. This study was undertaken to compare the suprapubic with the periumblical or "small-parts"approach. A total of 308 amniocenteses were included. The suprapubic method had fewer failures and fewer complications. The rate of premature rupture of the membranes was identifical with both approaches; in fact, following either type of amniocentesis, the percentage of premature ruptured membranes was no differnet from the anticipated spontaneous rate. In all cases of premature rupture of the membranes there were no cases of respiratory distress syndrome, maternal infection, or neonatal infection.