chorionic villus sampling
Prenatal diagnostic procedure involving sampling of placental tissue for genetic analysis, typically performed between 10-13 weeks gestation.
Full Definition
Chorionic villus sampling (CVS) is an invasive prenatal diagnostic test that involves taking a small sample of chorionic villi from the placenta for genetic analysis. The procedure can be performed either transcervically or transabdominally, typically between 10-13 weeks of gestation. Unlike amniocentesis, CVS allows for earlier genetic diagnosis but carries a small risk of maternal cell contamination and cannot detect neural tube defects.
Usage
Usage note: Often abbreviated as CVS in medical records.
In Context
- "The patient elected to undergo chorionic villus sampling at 11 weeks to screen for chromosomal abnormalities." — Prenatal care documentation