Ultrasound examination before amniocentesis. Its effect on cell culture for cytogenetic studies

In order to obtain metaphases plates from amniotic fluid cells for chromosome analysis, amniocentesis is performed on patients who are at risk of carrying a fetus with genetic disorders. Ultrasound examination is routinely done before amniocentesis as an aid to the latter procedure and to obtain clinical data concerning the fetus. Speculation that ultrasound examination would reduce the number of blood-stained taps obtained at amniocentesis and maybe also inhibit the growth of amniotic fluid cells in culture is discussed, based on findings in this laboratory over a 3-year period.