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Cordocentesis in Nagpur

18+ Weeks of Pregnancy
(Second Trimester)
1–2% Procedure Risk
(Experienced Centres)
~3–5d Hematology Results
(Anaemia · Blood Group)
~1 wk Rapid FISH
Karyotype Result
What is Cordocentesis?

A Fine Needle.
The Baby's Own Blood.
The Most Direct Answer.

Cordocentesis — also called percutaneous umbilical blood sampling (PUBS) or fetal blood sampling — is a procedure in which a fine needle is guided by continuous ultrasound into the umbilical vein to obtain a small sample of the baby's own blood from the umbilical cord.

Unlike amniocentesis (which samples fluid around the baby) or CVS (which samples placental tissue), cordocentesis provides direct access to the baby's bloodstream. This makes it the only procedure that can diagnose fetal anaemia by direct haemoglobin measurement, confirm that a baby has an active infection rather than just a maternal exposure, and assess the baby's own platelet count and blood group.

It is the most technically demanding invasive prenatal procedure — requiring a specialist to guide a needle precisely into the umbilical vein under ultrasound, with the baby moving. At Mayflower Clinic, cordocentesis is performed exclusively by Dr. Kunda Shahane on the GE Voluson Signature Expert — the only specialist in Central India with the skill and experience to perform this procedure.

Cordocentesis — At a Glance
When: 18 weeks of pregnancy onwards
Sample: Baby's own blood, directly from the umbilical vein
Target: Umbilical vein (~1 mm wide) — guided under ultrasound
Duration: 5–15 minutes for the sampling itself
Risk: ~1–2% miscarriage risk at experienced centres
Hematology results: ~3–5 days (anaemia, blood group, platelets)
Karyotype (FISH): ~1 week
Also used for: Fetal blood transfusion when anaemia is confirmed
The Unique Advantage

What Only the Baby's Own Blood Can Tell You

Amniotic fluid and placental tissue are valuable — but they cannot do everything. There are five clinical questions that only fetal blood can answer definitively. Cordocentesis exists because these questions matter.

🩸
Fetal Anaemia
Result: ~3–5 days
Direct measurement of haemoglobin and haematocrit. Confirms or excludes fetal anaemia — and if severe, allows immediate transfusion in the same procedure.
🦠
Fetal Infection
Result: ~1–2 weeks
Detection of fetal IgM antibodies for toxoplasma, CMV, parvovirus B19, rubella. Maternal exposure does not equal fetal infection — only fetal blood confirms this.
🩺
Platelet Count
Result: ~3–5 days
Direct fetal platelet count for suspected fetal thrombocytopenia — a condition where the baby has dangerously low platelets due to immune causes.
🧪
Blood Group & Rh Type
Result: ~3–5 days
Determines the baby's actual blood group and Rh factor — critical for managing Rh alloimmunisation and deciding if transfusion is needed and what blood to use.
🧬
Rapid Karyotype
Result: ~1 week (FISH)
Chromosomal analysis from fetal blood when amniocentesis has not been possible or when a rapid result is needed. Full karyotype results in approximately 3 weeks.
🏅
Pioneer of Fetal Procedures in Vidarbha Dr. Kunda Shahane was the first specialist to introduce cordocentesis and fetal blood transfusion to Vidarbha and Central India — procedures that were previously only available in major metropolitan centres. Families in Nagpur and the surrounding region no longer need to travel to Mumbai or Delhi for these life-saving interventions.
Indications

Who Is Cordocentesis Recommended For?

Cordocentesis is a specialist procedure reserved for specific clinical situations where the baby's own blood is needed for diagnosis or treatment. Dr. Kunda Shahane will assess whether it is indicated in your case.

Suspected Fetal Anaemia

The most common indication. When Doppler studies show elevated peak systolic velocity in the Middle Cerebral Artery (MCA PSV), this is a reliable sign of fetal anaemia. Cordocentesis confirms the diagnosis — and if severe anaemia is found, transfusion can follow immediately.

Rh Alloimmunisation and Haemolytic Disease

When an Rh-negative mother develops antibodies that destroy fetal red blood cells, serial MCA Doppler monitoring is used. When MCA PSV crosses the threshold, cordocentesis confirms anaemia and enables direct transfusion of compatible blood to the baby.

Suspected Fetal Infection (Confirmation)

When a mother has a confirmed infection (toxoplasma, CMV, parvovirus B19) during pregnancy, testing her blood alone cannot confirm whether the baby is infected. Only fetal IgM in the baby's own blood proves active fetal infection.

Fetal Thrombocytopenia

Suspected when the mother has a history of immune thrombocytopenia or carries anti-platelet antibodies. Only direct fetal blood testing can confirm the baby's platelet count and guide decisions about delivery and treatment.

Rapid Karyotype When Amniocentesis Is Not Possible

In situations where amniocentesis cannot be performed (oligohydramnios, technical difficulty, late presentation), fetal blood can be used for chromosomal analysis, with FISH results available in approximately one week.

Non-Immune Hydrops Fetalis

Hydrops (fluid accumulation in the baby) has many causes. Fetal blood sampling helps identify the cause — including anaemia from parvovirus B19, metabolic disorders, or chromosomal conditions — allowing targeted treatment to be considered.

🩸
Connected Procedure
When Diagnosis Becomes Treatment: Fetal Blood Transfusion

When cordocentesis confirms severe fetal anaemia, Dr. Kunda Shahane can proceed immediately to intrauterine fetal blood transfusion — delivering donor red blood cells directly into the baby's umbilical vein through the same needle access. This life-saving procedure, pioneered in Vidarbha by Dr. Kunda, corrects anaemia before birth and can prevent fetal hydrops, brain damage, and death. It may need to be repeated every 2–4 weeks, depending on the severity and cause of the anaemia.

Learn about Fetal Blood Transfusion →
Pre-Procedure Assessment

What Dr. Kunda Shahane Assesses Before Cordocentesis

Every cordocentesis begins with a careful pre-procedure assessment. The umbilical cord is a moving target — precise planning of needle approach is essential to safety and success.

MCA Doppler Review

For suspected fetal anaemia — confirming that the Middle Cerebral Artery peak systolic velocity (MCA PSV) has crossed the threshold that warrants invasive testing. This is the primary non-invasive indicator of fetal anaemia.

Umbilical Cord Mapping

Identifying the optimal point of cord entry — ideally the cord insertion at the placenta (most stable site) or a free loop. The cord's position, the placental location, and fetal position all determine the safest approach.

Fetal Wellbeing Confirmation

Confirming an active fetal heartbeat and assessing overall fetal condition before proceeding. Biophysical profile or CTG may be done in cases where fetal status is a concern.

Placental Position Assessment

Identifying whether the placenta is anterior or posterior — which affects the needle approach to the cord insertion. An anterior placenta may require trans-placental needle passage, which is accounted for in the technique.

Blood Group and Blood Availability

When fetal anaemia is suspected and transfusion may follow, compatible donor blood (irradiated, CMV-negative, O-negative packed red cells) must be arranged and available before the procedure begins.

Indication Review and Counselling

Reviewing the clinical reason, explaining the procedure, specific risks, and what will be done if transfusion is needed. Informed consent is obtained and all questions are answered before proceeding.

The Procedure

What to Expect — Step by Step

Cordocentesis is a precision procedure performed with you awake and comfortable. The blood sampling takes 5–15 minutes, though your total clinic time will be longer to allow for assessment, monitoring, and counselling.

  • 1
    Pre-procedure assessment and final ultrasound

    Dr. Kunda performs a detailed scan on the GE Voluson Signature Expert to confirm the cord position, placental location, fetal wellbeing, and the precise entry point. If transfusion may follow, compatible donor blood is confirmed as available.

  • 2
    Counselling and consent

    Dr. Kunda explains the procedure, the specific risks in your case, the tests being performed, and what happens if severe anaemia is found and transfusion is indicated. All questions are answered and written consent is obtained.

  • 3
    Antiseptic skin preparation

    The abdomen is cleaned with antiseptic solution. You remain awake and positioned comfortably. Local anaesthesia is generally not required — the needle is thin and most patients experience only brief abdominal discomfort.

  • 4
    Needle guidance to the umbilical vein

    A fine needle is directed through the abdominal wall and, under continuous real-time ultrasound visualisation, guided precisely into the umbilical vein at the cord insertion point. The GE Voluson Signature Expert provides high-definition imaging of the needle tip throughout. When the needle enters the umbilical vein, a small flash of blood confirms correct placement.

  • 5
    Blood sampling

    A small volume of fetal blood (1–4 mL depending on the tests required) is withdrawn by gentle aspiration into a syringe. This is an extremely small volume relative to the baby's total blood volume. If transfusion is indicated, it begins through the same needle immediately after sampling.

  • 6
    Immediate post-procedure monitoring

    After the needle is removed, Dr. Kunda monitors the cord entry point and fetal heart rate by ultrasound. If transfusion was performed, the baby's heart rate and Doppler flows are checked to confirm a good response. You will rest at the clinic for 30–60 minutes before leaving.

  • 7
    Sample dispatch and aftercare instructions

    The blood sample is labelled and dispatched to the laboratory. Dr. Kunda gives you written instructions on aftercare, the expected result timeline, and clear guidance on when and how to contact the clinic. For fetal anaemia cases requiring further transfusions, the next appointment is planned before you leave.

After Your Cordocentesis — Care Instructions
🏠Rest at home for the remainder of the day. Most women can resume light activities the following day, unless advised otherwise.
🚫Avoid strenuous activity, heavy lifting, and prolonged standing for at least 48 hours after the procedure.
💊Mild abdominal cramping is normal. Paracetamol may be taken if needed. Avoid aspirin and ibuprofen.
👶Monitor fetal movements. If you are not aware of normal fetal movements after 24 hours, contact the clinic.
💉Rh-negative women will receive Anti-D immunoglobulin before leaving the clinic. Confirm your blood group in advance.
📞The clinic team will contact you with all results and will arrange follow-up appointments if further transfusions are needed.
⚠️ Contact the clinic immediately if you experience: Heavy or persistent vaginal bleeding · Significant watery discharge (fluid leak) · Fever above 38°C · Severe abdominal pain that does not settle · Reduced or absent fetal movements.
WhatsApp or call 24×7: +91-8087471244 | 0712-669-2706
Before You Come

Preparing for Your Cordocentesis Appointment

✓ Appointment Checklist

  • ✓Bladder: Come with a partially full bladder — drink 2–3 glasses of water 30–45 minutes before. This improves uterine positioning and cord visibility on ultrasound.
  • ✓No fasting required: You may eat and drink normally before the procedure. Staying well-hydrated improves amniotic fluid volume and cord visualisation.
  • ✓Bring all reports: MCA Doppler reports, anomaly scan, previous blood group reports, maternal serology (infection testing), and any genetic test results. This is essential for pre-procedure assessment.
  • ✓Blood group confirmation: It is critical to confirm your blood group and Rh status in advance so that compatible donor blood and Anti-D can be arranged if needed.
  • ✓Bring a companion: Do not drive yourself home. Bring your partner, a family member, or a trusted person to accompany you.
  • ✓Comfortable clothing: Loose, comfortable clothing with easy abdominal access. Two-piece clothing is ideal.
  • ✓Allow adequate time: Plan for at least 2–3 hours for the full appointment — assessment, counselling, the procedure, and post-procedure monitoring. If transfusion is performed, additional time will be needed.
  • ✓ID and documents: A valid government-issued photo ID, Aadhaar card, and your referral documents from your obstetrician or fetal medicine specialist.
Watch Dr. Kunda Shahane
Invasive Prenatal Procedures — Dr. Kunda Shahane, Mayflower Fetal Medicine Nagpur
Frequently Asked Questions

Your Cordocentesis Questions, Answered

What is cordocentesis and why is it done?
Cordocentesis — also called percutaneous umbilical blood sampling (PUBS) or fetal blood sampling — is a procedure in which a fine needle is guided by ultrasound into the umbilical vein to collect a small sample of the baby's own blood. It is done when the baby's blood is specifically needed for diagnosis — most commonly to confirm fetal anaemia by direct haemoglobin measurement, to confirm fetal infection by detecting fetal IgM antibodies, to assess fetal platelet count, or to determine fetal blood group. It is a more specialised procedure than amniocentesis and is only recommended when it is the most appropriate test for the clinical question being asked.
How is cordocentesis different from amniocentesis?
Amniocentesis collects amniotic fluid from around the baby; cordocentesis collects the baby's own blood from the umbilical cord. The key difference lies in what each can diagnose. Cordocentesis is the only test that can directly measure fetal haemoglobin (for anaemia), fetal IgM antibodies (for active fetal infection), fetal platelet count, and fetal blood group — none of which can be obtained from amniotic fluid. Cordocentesis is technically more demanding and carries a higher procedural risk (~1–2% versus ~0.1–0.3% for amniocentesis). It is used only when the specific clinical question requires fetal blood.
Is cordocentesis painful?
Most patients describe the procedure as similar to a blood test — brief, mild abdominal discomfort rather than significant pain. The needle is fine and the sampling takes 5–15 minutes. Local anaesthesia is generally not required. Mild cramping and a sensation of pressure during needle insertion is normal. After the procedure, some women experience mild abdominal soreness for a few hours.
What are the risks of cordocentesis?
The procedure-related miscarriage risk from cordocentesis at experienced centres is approximately 1–2% — higher than amniocentesis because the target (umbilical vein, approximately 1 mm wide) is narrow and may move with fetal activity. Other risks include fetal bradycardia (temporary slowing of heart rate), cord haematoma (blood clot at the puncture site — usually self-resolving), infection (very rare with proper technique), and preterm labour (rare). Dr. Kunda Shahane performs cordocentesis under continuous GE Voluson Signature Expert guidance, using meticulous technique to minimise all these risks. The specific risk in your case will be discussed before you consent to the procedure.
How long does it take to get the results?
Direct hematological results — haemoglobin, haematocrit, platelet count, and blood group — are typically available within 3–5 days after the sample reaches the laboratory. Fetal infection testing (IgM antibodies) takes approximately 1–2 weeks. FISH karyotype results take approximately 1 week. Full karyotype takes approximately 3 weeks. All timelines include sample transport to our specialist genetics laboratory. Dr. Kunda Shahane will personally contact you with and discuss all results.
Can a blood transfusion be done at the same time as cordocentesis?
Yes — and this is one of the most important aspects of cordocentesis at Mayflower Clinic. When the procedure is being performed for suspected fetal anaemia, compatible donor blood is arranged in advance. If the haemoglobin measurement from the sampled blood confirms severe anaemia, Dr. Kunda Shahane can immediately perform intrauterine fetal blood transfusion through the same needle, without repositioning or repeating the entry. This means the baby receives treatment in the same session, without delay. This combined diagnostic-therapeutic approach is what makes cordocentesis so powerful for Rh disease and parvovirus-related anaemia.
How many cordocentesis procedures does a baby with Rh disease typically need?
This depends on the severity and the gestational age at which anaemia is first detected. Typically, after the first transfusion, MCA Doppler monitoring is resumed and a repeat cordocentesis with transfusion is planned every 2–4 weeks — as many times as needed to maintain the fetal haemoglobin above the critical threshold until delivery is safely possible. Dr. Kunda Shahane will schedule and manage the complete series of procedures and monitor the baby's progress at each step.

Related Services at Mayflower Clinic

Fetal Blood Transfusion → Amniocentesis → CVS → Colour Doppler Scan → Genetic Counselling → All Interventional Procedures → About Dr. Kunda Shahane →

Has Your Obstetrician Referred You for Cordocentesis?

If you have been told your baby may have fetal anaemia, a fetal infection, or another condition that requires fetal blood testing — Dr. Kunda Shahane is the only specialist in Central India with the experience and facilities to perform this procedure. You do not need to travel to another city.

📞 Call 0712-669-2706 💬 WhatsApp Us 📅 Book Appointment

Mayflower Fetal Medicine Centre · Dhantoli, Nagpur 440012 · Monday–Saturday 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

⚖️ PCPNDT Act Compliance Notice Mayflower Fetal Medicine Centre strictly complies with the Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques (Prohibition of Sex Selection) Act, 1994. Sex determination and sex-selective practices are strictly prohibited and punishable by law. All diagnostic services at this centre are performed exclusively for medical diagnosis and fetal wellbeing. Disclosure of fetal sex is illegal and is not performed at this centre.
Medical Disclaimer: This content is for general information only and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult Dr. Kunda Shahane or your treating obstetrician for advice specific to your pregnancy.