A new technique to overcome failed second-trimester amniocentesis due to membrane tenting.
Membrane tenting during amniocentesis is a significant cause of dry taps, leading to immediate procedure failure or multiple needle insertions. Because of the increased risk of fetal loss and other minor complications reported with multiple taps, a means of accomplishing fluid retrieval on a single pass is desirable. We describe a new single-pass technique that involves further needle penetration into the posterior myometrium, under ultrasound guidance, physically displacing the obstructing membranes down the shaft away from the tip.
Bowerman
R A
RA
Department of Radiology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor.
Barclay
M L
ML
D000649:Amniocentesis / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D011446:Prospective Studies; D014463:Ultrasonography