Experimental amniocentesis and teratogenesis. 2. Control of teratogenicity

An attempt was made to ameliorate or eliminate the teratogenicity of experimental amniocentesis a) by reducing the calibre of the needle used to puncture the amniotic membranes, and b) by applying a surgical hemostatic sponge over the puncture site. It was found that although neither attempts altered the deleterious effects of amniocentesis on the fetal parameters of weight, crownrump length, and length-weight ratio, the incidence of fetal mortality decreased as the calibre of the needle was reduced. Evidence regarding the ability of the Gelfoam seal to ameliorate the teratogenicity of amniocentesis was conflicting and inconclusive.