Amniovacucentesis vs standard syringe technique for amniocentesis: experience with 1219 cases

Objective

The aim of the study was to compare amniovacucentesis to the usual syringe use for amniotic fluid aspiration.

Study Design

We compared 2 groups of procedures: 1117 amniocenteses performed with the usual syringe technique and 1219 amniovacucenteses.

Results

The numbers of needle insertions, unsuccessful amniocyte cultures, and miscarriage up to 21 days after the procedure were statistically not significant (P > .01) comparing the 2 techniques.

Conclusion

The vacuum tube serves as an automated aspiration tool alternative. The major subjective differences between the 2 methods are the operator's comfort and dexterity during sampling and the absence of an extra manipulation of the amniotic fluid after aspiration.

Key words: amniocentesis, automatic aspiration, instrumentation, methods, prenatal diagnosis, vacuum tube