Cordocentesis in isoimmunization and fetal physiologic measurement, infection, and karyotyping.

Diagnostic cordocentesis is indicated in situations that require fetal vascular access. These include detection of intrauterine TORCH infections, estimation of the extent of fetal anemia before initiating therapy for isoimmunization and determination of fetal hematocrit for appropriate timing of subsequent transfusions. It may also be applied to evaluate fetal acid-base status and rapid karyotyping in fetuses with structural anomalies, intrauterine growth retardation, or oligohydramnios. More recently, it has been used to assist in the diagnosis of intrauterine starvation. Therapeutic applications of cordocentesis include intrauterine transfusion and the administration of medications directly to the fetus. Complications inherent to this procedure include cord hematoma and placental abruption.