Fetal umbilical cord catheterization under ultrasound guidance

Since 1984 we have performed 30 intrauterine exchange transfusions (IUET) under ultrasound guidance. In 4 pregnancies with anterior placenta, we performed 9 umbilical cord catheterizations in 11 IUET: the first with material for epidural analgesia and the others with a central venous catheter. The latest one was performed at 34 weeks, the earliest at 27 weeks and repeated up to 4 times. Every catheterization did not last more than 5 min and we did not find any infection, hematoma or placental or cord injury. All 4 pregnancies were delivered at 34-36 weeks and the babies are alive and healthy (the oldest is 4 years old). This technique, when possible, is a good alternative to long procedures with risk of fetal movements, and limits the risk of hematoma.