Gaining access to the embryonic-fetal circulation via first-trimester endoscopy: a step into the future.
OBJECTIVE
To assess the feasibility of gaining access to the embryonic-fetal circulation via first-trimester transcervical embryoscopy.


METHODS
A fiberoptic endoscope with a 3.5-mm, wide-angle lens was passed transcervically through the chorion and into the exocoelomic cavity of women undergoing pregnancy termination. A 26-gauge heparinized needle was passed through the sideport of the endoscope and inserted into the blood vessels of the chorionic plate or umbilical cord to obtain blood samples.


RESULTS
With a modified endoscope, we have been able to gain access into the embryonic-fetal circulation and obtain a small aliquot of blood in five of eight cases.


CONCLUSIONS
Our experience establishes the feasibility of gaining access to the human embryonic-fetal circulation. This work is expected to serve as a basis for further studies of the diagnosis and treatment of congenital diseases in early pregnancy.
Reece
E A
EA
Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, Temple University School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Whetham
J
J
Rotmensch
S
S
Wiznitzer
A
A
D017218:Cordocentesis / Q000379:methods*; D005260:Female; D005312:Fetal Blood; D005332:Fetoscopy / Q000379:methods*; D005333:Fetus / Q000098:blood supply*; D006801:Humans; D011247:Pregnancy; D011261:Pregnancy Trimester, First