The effect of ultrasonography on midtrimester genetic amniocentesis complications.

Midtrimester amniocentesis for antenatal genetic diagnostic purposes is a relatively new procedure. The assumption that placental localization before amniocentesis will reduce the numbers of abortions, bloody taps, and missed taps has resulted in the routine use of diagnostic ultrasound for placental localization. This study consists of two groups undergoing midtrimester amniocentesis. The groups were distinguished by the use and absence of the use of ultrasound data prior to amniocentesis. Comparisons between the groups failed to support the contention that the routine use of ultrasound reduces the complications of midtrimester amniocentesis. Our findings support other published data concluding that the routine use of ultrasound does not help to reduce the number of midtrimester amniocentesis complications.