Chorionic villous sampling: A review of 1030 procedures

Objective: The objective of this study was to assess the safety and results of chorionic villous sampling. Methods: We reviewed the indications, techniques, number of aspirations, su ccess rates in obtaining specimens, risks and cytogenetic and molecular res ults of 781 early (first trimester) and 249 late (second and third trimeste r) chorionic villous sampling procedures performed at our institution. Results: Sampling was successful in 96% of procedures. The fetal loss rate after early and late chorionic villous sampling was 2.4% and 1.2%, respecti vely. Abnormal results were found in 7% of tests. Conclusions: The fetal loss rate after early CVS was only marginally higher than the spontaneous abortion rate in the tenth to eleventh week of pregna ncy. Chorionic villous sampling is a safe and prompt technique for prenatal diagnosis.