Which procedure permits direct viewing of the developing fetus?

Which procedure permits direct viewing of the developing fetus?

• A. Embryoscopy
• B. Amniocentesis
• C. Cordocentesis
• D. Chorionic villus sampling

Answer: (A)

Direct visualization of the developing fetus is achieved with embryoscopy, which uses a small endoscope inserted into the uterus to visualize the embryo or fetus directly. This real-time viewing sets it apart from the other procedures, which obtain samples or tissues for testing—amniocentesis collects amniotic fluid, cordocentesis obtains fetal blood from the umbilical cord, and chorionic villus sampling collects placental tissue. Embryoscopy provides direct imaging of fetal structures, whereas the others do not.

Direct visualization of the developing fetus is achieved with embryoscopy, which uses a small endoscope inserted into the uterus to visualize the embryo or fetus directly. This real-time viewing sets it apart from the other procedures, which obtain samples or tissues for testing—amniocentesis collects amniotic fluid, cordocentesis obtains fetal blood from the umbilical cord, and chorionic villus sampling collects placental tissue. Embryoscopy provides direct imaging of fetal structures, whereas the others do not.