Midtrimester amniocentesis: ten year experience in South Dakota

Amniocentesis was begun as a clinical service by the Department of OB/GYN of the School of Medicine in 1978 through the Genetics Laboratory. The experience gained over the subsequent ten years and 1275 studies is detailed. An incidence of 2.9% abnormal karyotype to amniocentesis was found. Genetic counseling with regard to amniocentesis is recommended for women of 35 years or older with a positive family history.