The risks of amniocentesis in the management of premature rupture of the membranes.
Amniocentesis has proved to be a useful tool in the management of preterm gestation with premature rupture of the membranes. Concern has been expressed, however, regarding possible risks of amniocentesis to mother or fetus. A retrospective review was made of 137 patients referred to us because of premature rupture of the membranes between 28 and 34 weeks of gestation. Amniocentesis was successfully performed in 91 patients. A statistical analysis of the time interval from amniocentesis to labor failed to show any evidence that amniocentesis might induce labor. In addition, no maternal or neonatal morbidity could be attributed to amniocentesis.
D000649:Amniocentesis / Q000009:adverse effects*; D005069:Evaluation Studies as Topic; D005260:Female; D005322:Premature Rupture of Fetal Membranes / Q000150:complications / Q000628:therapy*; D005323:Fetal Monitoring; D006801:Humans; D007752:Obstetric Labor, Premature / Q000517:prevention & control; D011247:Pregnancy; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D012306:Risk; D013997:Time Factors