Percutaneous umbilical blood sampling

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Definition Why it's done Risks

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Definition

Percutaneous umbilical blood sampling (PUBS) is a highly specialized prenatal test in which a blood sample is removed from the umbilical cord and tested for genetic problems or infections. Percutaneous umbilical blood sampling can be done after the 18th week of pregnancy.

Percutaneous umbilical blood sampling carries about a two in 100 risk of miscarriage. Still, the test can play an important role in prenatal care. A key benefit is speed. Results are usually available within 72 hours — in some cases, in as little as two hours. Also, percutaneous umbilical blood sampling can be used to deliver blood transfusions and medication to the baby through the umbilical cord.

Percutaneous umbilical blood sampling is also known as umbilical vein sampling, fetal blood sampling and cordocentesis.

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