Chorionic Villus Sampling
Definition Chorionic villus sampling (CVS) is a procedure for taking a small piece of placental tissue (chorionic villi) from the uterus in the early stages of pregnancy to check for the presence of genetic defects in the fetus.
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Why is the Test Performed?
This test is a way of detecting congenital (present from before birth) defects. The sample is used to study the DNA, chromosomes, and enzymes of the fetus and can be done earlier than amniocentesis, about 10 to 12 weeks after your last menstrual period.
Test results from a CVS are obtained within 1 to 2 weeks, whereas amniocentesis results may take as long as a month. Earlier diagnosis of congenital defects may relieve some of the concerns of your family, especially if a therapeutic abortion is under consideration.
Chorionic villus sampling does not detect neural tube defects. If neural tube defects or Rh incompatibility are a concern, an amniocentesis will be performed.
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