Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 2, 2026
11:15
A Modified Method for Intrathecal Catheterization in Rats
Published on: February 14, 2025
Safer cordocentesis by new 25-gauge needles
Yuichi Kawakami1, Hideo Matsuda, Tomoko Shibasaki
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National Defense Medical College, Tokorozawa, Japan. grd1805@ndmc.ac.jp
Fetal Diagnosis and Therapy
|August 30, 2008
Summary
New 25-gauge needles offer safer cordocentesis by reducing blood loss and improving fetal heart rate recovery. These findings suggest 25-gauge needles are a promising alternative for cordocentesis procedures.
Area of Science:
- Perinatal Medicine
- Fetal Surgery
- Medical Device Innovation
Background:
- Cordocentesis is a prenatal diagnostic procedure.
- Current needles may pose risks such as blood loss.
- Safer alternatives are needed to improve patient outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the safety and efficacy of 25-gauge needles for cordocentesis compared to larger gauges.
- To assess potential complications like blood loss, hemolysis, and platelet activation.
- To analyze fetal heart rate patterns post-procedure.
Main Methods:
- Experiment 1: Pressure changes in umbilical cords using 22-, 23-, and 25-gauge needles.
- Experiment 2: Hemolysis and platelet activation assessment with blood samples through different needle gauges.
- Clinical comparison of non-stress tests (NSTs) after cordocentesis with 23-gauge vs. 25-gauge needles.
Main Results:
- 25-gauge needles demonstrated a more favorable pressure curve in vitro.
- No significant differences in hemolysis or platelet activation were found between needle sizes.
- NSTs showed significantly shorter recovery times for variability and acceleration with 25-gauge needles.
Conclusions:
- 25-gauge needles appear superior in minimizing blood loss during cordocentesis.
- While blood sampling may take longer, no adverse effects on blood components were observed.
- Favorable NST patterns support the use of 25-gauge needles for improved cordocentesis safety.
