MODIFIED STYLET TECHNIQUE FOR TENTING OF AMNIOTIC MEMBRANES

A modified amniocentesis technique can reduce the failure rate in case s of tenting of the membranes. Failure to aspirate amniotic fluid (AF) because of amniotic membrane tenting may persist after advancement an d rotation of the needle. In such cases, the membranes may be pierced by using a stylet that is longer than the length of the needle. With t he needle in the middle of a suitable AF pocket, the stylet of the nee dle is replaced with a longer stylet. Under real-time ultrasonographic guidance, the tip of the stylet is then rapidly advanced 5-10 mm beyo nd the tip of the needle. During genetic amniocentesis, we have used t he longer stylet technique to pierce tented membranes without complica tions in 21 of 22 cases.