AMNIOCENTESIS AND CHORIONIC VILLUS SAMPLING

Amniocentesis and chorionic villus sampling have been shown through pr ospective, multicenter trials to be safe and effective methods of pren atal diagnosis; accordingly, a knowledge of these tests is important f or those physicians who care for women during their childbearing years . We review the indications, techniques, safety, accuracy, and efficac y of amniocentesis and chorionic villus sampling and compare the advan tages and disadvantages of each diagnostic test. This review should en able physicians to provide appropriate counseling and information to w omen at increased risk for fetal abnormalities detectable by either of these procedures.