Pathologic examination of fetal specimens from dilation and evacuation procedures

The systematic examination of fetal specimens obtained from dilation and evacuation (D & E) procedures with termination of pregnancy for fetal malformations and chromosomal abnormalities is described. Although a D & E procedure does not yield an intact fetus, pathologic examination of fetal parts by use of radiography, gross dissection, microscopic examination, and/or cell culture for karyotyping or biochemical analysis can aid in confirming most prenatal clinical diagnoses or provide a specific diagnosis. In this study, a major abnormality could be detected in 92% of 37 D & E cases examined, and in 46% a specific diagnosis was obtained only from pathologic examination. This information is useful for genetic counselling and future family planning.