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cordocentesis
Pronunciation: kor-do-sen-TEE-sis
Prenatal diagnostic procedure involving needle sampling of fetal blood from umbilical cord.
Full Definition
A specialized prenatal diagnostic procedure, also known as percutaneous umbilical blood sampling (PUBS), where fetal blood is obtained directly from the umbilical cord vein using ultrasound guidance. This procedure is typically performed after 18 weeks of pregnancy when rapid chromosomal analysis is needed or when other prenatal tests have given unclear results. Cordocentesis carries higher risks than amniocentesis or CVS and is reserved for specific clinical indications.
Usage
Usage note: Often abbreviated as PUBS in clinical documentation.
In Context
- "Cordocentesis was recommended for rapid karyotype analysis." — high-risk consultation
- "The cordocentesis procedure confirmed suspected fetal anemia." — specialist report
Also known as
PUBS
percutaneous umbilical blood sampling
fetal blood sampling
Don't confuse with
amniocentesis
chorionic villus sampling