Per-urethral transvesical first-trimester amniocentesis

Abstract Early amniocentesis (before 13 weeks' gestation) using a per-urethral transvesical route is studied. Eight samples were obtained in eight patients scheduled for elective termination of pregnancy. The volume of amniotic fluid averaged 12.5 ± 7.8 ml. Culture was successful in all samples. In one case, culture was achieved with only 2 ml of amniotic fluid. The amniotic fluid can be easily obtained via the per-urethral transvesical route. We conclude that early per-urethral amniocentesis before 13 weeks amenorrhea may be an alternative to the transabdominal route. A clinical trial should be carried out in order to evaluate both techniques.