[Chorionic villi biopsy as an alternative to amniocentesis]

The results of a retrospective assessment of the first 112 chorion villus biopsies carried out in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology in the Central Hospital in Randers are presented. Karyotype determination was obtained in 98.2% and in 83.9% already by means of direct microscopic examination after incubation for 24 hours. No complications which could be attributed to the biopsies were registered. The present authors consider that the method should be employed more extensively for prenatal cytogenetic diagnosis.