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cordocentesis
Prenatal diagnostic procedure involving direct sampling of fetal blood from the umbilical cord.
Full Definition
Cordocentesis, also known as percutaneous umbilical blood sampling (PUBS), is an invasive prenatal diagnostic procedure performed after 18 weeks of pregnancy. A needle is guided by ultrasound to puncture the umbilical cord and extract fetal blood for analysis. The procedure can diagnose genetic disorders, assess fetal anemia, monitor infections, and enable intrauterine transfusions. It carries higher risks than amniocentesis, including bleeding, infection, and emergency delivery.
Usage
Usage note: Also known as PUBS. Reserve for cases where other testing methods are insufficient.
In Context
- "Cordocentesis was performed to assess fetal hemoglobin levels in suspected severe anemia." — Procedure note
- "The risks and benefits of cordocentesis were thoroughly discussed given the complexity of the case." — Informed consent documentation
Also known as
PUBS
percutaneous umbilical blood sampling
funipuncture
Don't confuse with
amniocentesis
chorionic villus sampling