Complications associated with Amniocentesis in the third trimester of Pregnancy

Background: Amniocentesis is a procedure done for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes. It is a useful resource to establish fetal lung maturity in the final stages of pregnancy, when it is necessary for the pregnancy resolution. The objective of the study was to determine the morbidity associated with amniocentesis in the third trimester of pregnant women. Methods: A retrospective, cross-sectional, descriptive study in which 203 pregnant women underwent amniocentesis under ultrasound guidance was performed. Demographic data, etiology, clinical features of the maternal and fetal complications resulting from the procedure were analyzed. Results: Two hundred forty-nine amniocentesis procedures were performed in the 205 patients. The mean gestational age was 36.7 ± 2.8 weeks. Extraction of hematic amniotic fluid (4.8%) and preterm labor (1.9%) were minor complications attributed to the procedure. Premature rupture of membranes was the main major complication (1.45%). No fetal loss from the procedure was recorded. Conclusion: The amniocentesis during the third trimester of the pregnancy has decreased due to a better prenatal care and the ability to document the gestational age with ultrasound or other diagnostic techniques. However, despite the complications that may occur, amniocentesis is still a valid therapeutic and/or diagnostic tool in those patients who have indications for the realization of the procedure. J Clin Gynecol Obstet. 2017;6(2):34-36 doi: https://doi.org/10.14740/jcgo452w