Place of amniocentesis in the assessment of preterm labour.
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate the benefits and indications for amniocentesis in cases of preterm labor with or without preterm rupture of membranes.


METHODS
A review of the literature on amniocentesis in cases of intra-amniotic infection.


RESULTS
Amniocentesis is an invasive method that allows the diagnosis of intra-amniotic infection. However, no randomized trials have been performed from which we can assess the benefits and complications of amniocentesis in preterm labor.


CONCLUSIONS
The published data do not justify the routine practice of amniocentesis in preterm labor. More data are needed to evaluate the benefits and complications of this practice. Only randomized trials of patients in preterm labor, comparing those who undergo amniocentesis with those who do not, will clarify the indications for this procedure.
Tsatsaris
V
V
Maternity Baudelocque, Port Royal, Cochin Hospital, Paris, France. tsatsari@club-internet.fr
Carbonne
B
B
Cabrol
D
D
D000649:Amniocentesis; D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D005260:Female; D005322:Premature Rupture of Fetal Membranes; D006801:Humans; D007239:Infections / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy; D007752:Obstetric Labor, Premature / Q000209:etiology* / Q000517:prevention & control; D011247:Pregnancy; D014591:Uterine Diseases / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy
D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents