Chorionic Villi Biopsies, also known as CVS (Chorionic Villus Sampling), is a medical procedure performed during pregnancy to diagnose potential genetic abnormalities or chromosomal disorders in the developing fetus. The term "chorionic" refers to the chorion, which is the outer membrane surrounding the embryo or developing fetus, and "villi" refers to tiny finger-like structures that protrude from the chorion.
Chorionic Villi Biopsies involve the removal of a small sample of tissue from the chorionic villi located within the placenta. The procedure is typically performed between the 10th and 13th weeks of pregnancy and can be done transabdominally or transcervically, depending on the preference of the healthcare provider.
Once the tissue sample is obtained, it is sent to a laboratory for analysis. Pathologists examine the chorionic villi cells to identify any genetic abnormalities, such as Down syndrome, cystic fibrosis, or other chromosomal disorders. The results obtained from Chorionic Villi Biopsies provide important information to expectant parents about the overall health and development of their unborn child.
It is essential to consider that Chorionic Villi Biopsies carry a small risk of complications, including miscarriage and infection. Therefore, the decision to undergo this procedure should be carefully discussed between the healthcare provider and the expectant parents, taking into account the individual circumstances and risks involved.
In conclusion, Chorionic Villi Biopsies are a prenatal diagnostic tool used to detect potential genetic abnormalities or chromosomal disorders in the fetus by analyzing the cells from the chorionic villi, located in the placenta.
