amnioinfusion
Therapeutic instillation of fluid into the amniotic cavity to treat oligohydramnios or reduce cord compression.
Full Definition
Amnioinfusion is a procedure where sterile saline solution is infused into the amniotic cavity through a catheter placed in the uterus. This technique is primarily used to treat oligohydramnios (low amniotic fluid) or to reduce umbilical cord compression during labor. The additional fluid helps cushion the umbilical cord and may improve fetal heart rate patterns. Amnioinfusion can be performed either transabdominally (through the mother's abdomen) or transcervically (through the cervix during labor). The procedure may help prevent or treat variable decelerations in fetal heart rate caused by cord compression.
Usage
Usage note: Not to be confused with amniocentesis, which removes rather than adds amniotic fluid.
In Context
- "Amnioinfusion was performed to address severe oligohydramnios and recurrent variable decelerations." — Procedure note
- "The decision was made to proceed with amnioinfusion to improve the intrauterine environment." — Labor management plan