Chorionic Villus Sampling
What is Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS)?
CVS is the withdrawal of a small amount of chorionic villi (placental tissue) through the woman's cervix or her abdomen. The chorionic villi are cells within the placenta and have the same genetic information as the fetus (unborn baby). CVS detects over 98% of chromosome abnormalities. Typically, the CVS procedure is performed between 10 and 14 weeks gestation (counting from the first day of the last menstrual period). Results of the CVS are available in 10 to 14 days. A preliminary result may be available within 1-2 days.
Before the CVS procedure, an ultrasound exam is done to look at the fetus, uterus and placenta. The procedure consists of placing a very thin needle or catheter into the placenta while watching with ultrasound. A small amount of chorionic villi are removed. Most women describe some cramping with the CVS procedure.
What tests can be done on chorionic villi?
Different tests can be done on chorionic villi depending on the woman's family and medical history. It is important to realize that CVS does not test for all genetic conditions. CVS does not test for birth defects.
- Testing for chromosome abnormalities
- Testing for inherited genetic conditions
The chorionic villi are cells within the placenta and have the same genetic information as the fetus (unborn baby). Test results are usually available within two weeks and detect over 98% of all chromosome abnormalities.
You may know that you are at higher risk of carrying a fetus with a certain inherited genetic condition. This risk may be known because you have a family member that has been diagnosed with a genetic condition or you and your partner have had carrier testing. Depending on your family and medical history, testing for a specific genetic condition may be available. It is important to realize that not all genetic conditions can be tested for by CVS and CVS does not test for all genetic conditions
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