What is Cordocentesis ?
It is an invasive prenatal procedure. It Can obtain a sample of blood from a fetus’s umbilical cord to detect blood disorders, infections and genetic mutations. It can also be used to deliver medications or blood transfusions to a fetus.
It’s also called percutaneous umbilical cord blood sampling (PUBS) or funipuncture.
What does cordocentesis test for?
It can test for certain conditions in a fetus, like:
1. Anaemia
2. Thrombocytopenia
3. Blood disorders
4. Chromosomal/genetic abnormality
5. Infections
6. Isoimmunisation, etc
You can discuss all of the testing options and your individual risk factors before deciding on whether or not to have the test.
Cordocentesis is done anytime after 17weeks of pregnancy.
How is the procedure 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 very thin needle is inserted through the abdomen (belly) and into the uterus and then in the fetal umbilical cord guided by ultrasound.
A small sample of blood is withdrawn from the cord of fetus.
The sample is sent to a lab for testing.
After the needle is removed and the baby is checked, you will be able to leave the room. You will need to lie down for 1-2 hrs or so and then you can go home.
If cordocentesis is performed for treatment i.e. for administration of medicines or blood, admission to a hospital is generally required for monitoring.
Is Cordocentesis Painful?
You may feel some pain and discomfort.
Are there any risks?
Cordocentesis is an invasive procedure with significant risk. It can lead to miscarriage in 1-2% cases. If performed late in pregnancy, it can also lead to early delivery by emergency caesarean section.
Other risks include:
1. Blood loss in the fetus or the mother.
2. Cord hematoma, when blood collects in the umbilical cord.
3. Slow fetal heart rate.
4. Infection in the fetus or uterus.
5. Premature rupture of membraned, which may lead to early delivery.
When will we get the results?
The results depends on the type test that is done on the cord blood sample. It may range from 3days to 1 month. You may also get the results stepwise if multiple tests are requested.
Note :
If your blood group is Rh (rhesus) negative, it will be recommended that you have an injection of anti-D immunoglobulin before the procedure to prevent you from developing antibodies against your baby’s blood cells.
If you have HIV, hepatitis B or hepatitis C viruses, Cordocentesis might increase the risk that you pass this on to your baby. You are expected to get screened for these viruses before the procedure. If you screen positive for any of these, your options and further care would be discussed.