Amniocentesis under continuous ultrasound guidance: a series of 232 cases

Presented is an improved technique for ultrasonic guidance of amniocentesis using continuous visualization of the needle. This technique was evaluated in 232 of 235 consecutive taps. The needle was easily observed from beginning to end of the procedure without contaminating the sterile field or using biopsy transducers. With this technique, clear fluid was obtained by single-needle pass more often than previously reported in the literature. This technique may lower the already low but present risk from amniocentesis.