Fetal transfusion with real-time ultrasound guidance.
A technique of fetal transfusion using sonographic guidance for needle placement is described. Sixteen patients underwent a total of 43 transfusions. The fetal mortality risk appears to be lower than that encountered in fluoroscopy-directed transfusions. Fetal irradiation has been dramatically reduced from an average of 2.2 rads per transfusion to 0.29 rads per transfusion. The technique allows very precise placement of a needle within the uterus or fetus. We have used it in difficult cases for amniocentesis. The technique could also be adapted to other problems requiring accurate placement of a needle within the body, such as biopsy of masses or aspiration of cysts.
D001805:Blood Transfusion, Intrauterine / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000379:methods*; D004899:Erythroblastosis, Fetal / Q000628:therapy*; D005069:Evaluation Studies as Topic; D005260:Female; D005313:Fetal Death / Q000209:etiology; D006801:Humans; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D011247:Pregnancy; D014463:Ultrasonography