Chorionic biopsy for prenatal diagnosis. An investigative study of 110 cases.

The results of experimental chorionic villus biopsies in 100 first-trimester pregnancies in patients who were undergoing suction termination are presented, together with the results of biopsies from 10 continuing pregnancies. The trends that were observed confirm previous findings that chorionic biopsy can be employed to diagnose chromosomal, genetic and biochemical disorders in the first trimester of pregnancy. The risks surrounding the procedure and the need for continuing assessment and development are discussed.