A comparison of cordocentesis outcomes between early and conventional procedures.

OBJECTIVE: To compare procedural outcomes between early cordocentesis (16-17 weeks) and those at 18-22 weeks.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: A prospective database of cordocentesis was assessed. The eligible criteria included are (1) singleton pregnancy; (2) no fetal abnormalities; (3) gestational age of 16-22 weeks and (4) procedures performed by experienced operators. The procedures performed during 16-17 weeks were defined as early cordocentesis (Study group). The Control group (conventional cordocentesis; 18-22 weeks) were selected by matching maternal age and years of procedures, with a ratio of 1:3.

RESULTS: Of 2942 eligible procedures, 103 procedures were undertaken during 16-17 weeks and 309 matched controls were selected. Baseline characteristics of both groups were comparable. Time used to complete the procedure was significantly longer in Study group (8.45 ± 9.91 vs. 6.07 ± 6.63 min; p value 0.007). Similarly, rate of difficult procedures was significantly higher in Study group (7.8 vs. 2.3%; p value 0.011). However, rates of fetal loss, low birth weight infants and preterm births were not significantly different, but there was a tendency to be higher in Study group.

CONCLUSION: Early cordocentesis is more difficult but relatively safe when performed by experienced hands, although it has a tendency to increase rates of adverse outcomes. This information may be helpful in counseling the couples.