Experience with amniocentesis at the Johannesburg Amniocentesis Clinic in 1976

One hundred and seventy-six amniocenteses were performed in the Johannesburg Amniocentesis Clinic in 1976. These were for genetic studies, assessment of fetal lung maturity and assessment of the severity of rhesus disease. The indications for amniocentesis and the results are discussed. The overall complication rate was low. This was due to certain precautions and approaches taken, which are detailed.