Amnioinfusion: an aid in the ultrasonographic evaluation of severe oligohydramnios in pregnancy.

OBJECTIVE

Amnioinfusion was used in pregnancy complicated by severe oligohydramnios to enable a more comprehensive ultrasonographic evaluation of the pregnancy.

STUDY DESIGN

Thirteen patients were referred to the Division of Obstetrical and Gynecological Ultrasound at the University of Miami because of severe oligohydramnios in which a definitive diagnosis could not be made. Nine patients were in the second trimester and four were in the early third trimester. All patients underwent amnioinfusion with warm physiologic saline solution and instillation of indigo carmine. Genetic amniocentesis was performed in 11 patients.

RESULTS

After amnioinfusion a satisfactory comprehensive ultrasonographic examination could be performed on all patients. In most cases we were able to achieve a definitive diagnosis.

CONCLUSION

Amnioinfusion with the addition of indigo carmine was a satisfactory technique to enable a more comprehensive ultrasonographic evaluation of pregnancy complicated by severe oligohydramnios.