What is Amnioreduction ?
It is a procedure in which the fluid around the unborn baby ie amniotic fluid is removed via a needle in cases where it is formed in excess and is causing problems to mother or the baby.
Why is it done?
Sometimes amniotic fluid is formed in excess which causes the mother’s belly to enlarge too much causing difficulty in breathing. Also in certain types of twin pregnancies, there is excess fluid in one twin and decreased in other etc.
Removing excess fluid may help the baby in the womb and help ease mother’s discomfort.
How is it done?
You would have to come with your husband/relative for the procedure. Prior to the procedure, you would be explained the procedure with its benefits and risk. You would be asked to sign a written consent.
You may be asked to empty your bladder before the procedure.
Like an ultrasound examination, you would be asked to lie down on a couch. Your tummy would be cleaned by antiseptic. A local anaesthetic injection may be used to numb a small area.
Under antibiotic cover a thin needle is inserted through the abdomen (belly) and into the uterus guided by ultrasound. Then excess amount of amniotic fluid is removed via syringes/vacuum pump.
You would be advised admission for monitoring of fetal heart rate.
The procedure can be done several times (which is called serial amnioreduction).
Are there any risks?
It is generally a safe procedure. The risks are preterm labor (and delivery), infection (e.g., chorioamnionitis), placental abruption (bleeding) etc. An overall risk of 1.5 – 3.1% is noted in the literature.