PLACENCA AND UMBILICAL CORD
The umbilical cord (umbilical cord), originating from the placenta, provides
communication between the mother and the baby. The umbilical cord, which contains one vein and two arteries, provides blood to the fetus and also removes waste from the fetus.
WHAT IS CORDOCYNTHESIS? Also called 'Umbilical Vein Sampling'. It is a diagnostic test in which a blood sample of the baby (of the fetus) is taken from the umbilical cord for examination. The health status of the baby is evaluated by tests performed on the blood taken. Genetic disorders,
blood diseases, infections are examined. Additionally, the baby can be given blood and
medicine for therapeutic purposes through this umbilical cord.
In general, the rate of cordocentesis application is decreasing. The main reason for this is that other diagnostic methods (amniocentesis, chorionic villus biopsy) are applied more frequently because they are less risky for the fetus. However, if other diagnostic methods do not provide sufficient information or if results need to be obtained as soon as possible
cordocentesis is recommended.
WHY IS IT APPLIED?
1. Diagnosis of genetic disorder
2. Fetal infection (rubella, (such as toxoplasmosis)
3. Determination of the degree of anemia in the fetus
4. Determination of the degree of isoimmunization (in Rh incompatibility)
5. Determination of the baby's clotting cell number in the mother
6. Blood transfusion to the baby
/> 7. Medication to the baby
WHAT ARE THE RISKS?
Risks related to cordocentesis are as follows:
Low
Bleeding in the cord
Slow heartbeat
Infection
Water breaking
HOW IS IT APPLIED?
It is performed in the outpatient clinic at 24 weeks of pregnancy. For women who are 24 weeks pregnant, it is performed in the hospital as an emergency caesarean section may be required in case of a problem. These pregnant women must stay hungry and thirsty for at least 8 hours. Lie down in supine
position. With ultrasound, the gestational age, placenta location and umbilical cord entry site
are determined. The abdominal skin is cleaned with an antiseptic. Under ultrasound guidance, the anterior abdominal wall is passed with a special, long, thin needle. There may be a slight stinging sensation. Then the uterine wall is passed. There may be mild cramp-like pain.
The entry point of the cord into the placenta is reached. At least 2 cc. blood is taken from the umbilical vein. The procedure is terminated by removing the needle
. After 5 minutes, the baby's heartbeat is checked and you are removed.
WHAT TO CONSIDER AFTER THE PROCEDURE?
You should not force yourself after the procedure. If possible, have someone else drive you home. Intercourse is prohibited for one
week. Strenuous, strenuous activities that will increase intra-abdominal pressure should be avoided for 3 days. Airplane
travel is not risky. However, in case of trouble it is preferable to be close to home. Mild cramp-like groin pain is normal for the first 1-2 days. Situations that require urgent application are: groin pain, bleeding, water breaking, fever of 38 o C
.
WHAT DO THE RESULTS MEAN?
Results are obtained within 72 hours. Although a diagnosis is made for chromosome diseases and some blood diseases, the severity of the disease cannot be determined. The results are evaluated together with clinical findings and additional tests or information. If the result
is normal, your follow-up is planned. If infection is detected, treatment options are explained. If there is severe anemia
blood transfusion is planned. If there is a condition that cannot be treated, consultancy service is provided to help you decide.
SHOULD WE HAVE CORDOCENTESY?
The opportunities gained by diagnosis as a result of cordocentesis are as follows:
If medical intervention is possible,
Starting to make a plan for a baby with special needs
Determining the anticipated lifestyle changes
Determining support groups and opportunities
There may be people who do not have any tests for the following reasons:
Those who accept the pregnancy result in any case
Those who cannot terminate a pregnancy due to personal, moral or religious reasons
Those who do not take the risk of harming the baby
HOW SHOULD WE DECIDE?
You should discuss the pros and cons of the test in detail with your doctor. Your doctor will help you evaluate whether the benefit of the procedure
outweighs the harm.
CORDOCYNTHESIS FOR THERAPEUTIC PURPOSES
If the baby has severe anemia, it is applied for blood transfusion. If the baby has a heart rhythm disorder and the medications given to the mother do not help, the medication is given this way.
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