Training in chorionic villus sampling: Limited experience for US fellows

Objective This study was undertaken to assess training availability, methods, and plans for future practice of invasive procedures for maternal fetal medicine (MFM) fellows. Study design A survey was sent to all MFM fellows registered with the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology in March of 2001. Results Of 91 surveys, 55 (60.4%) were returned. All respondents were trained in second-trimester amniocentesis and planned on performing the procedure after fellowship. Of the 55 respondents, 53 (96.4%) were trained on continuing pregnancies. Despite 82% of training institutions performing chorionic villus sampling (CVS), only 24 of 45 (53%) fellows had availability for training. Of those 24, 14 (58%) initiated training on pregnancies that were undergoing termination. Median number of procedures performed by fellows (continuing pregnancies and before termination) was 3 (range 0-120), with 40 procedures (range 0-140) expected to be performed before completing fellowship. Twenty-eight fellows planned on performing CVS after training. Conclusion The number of centers training MFM fellows in CVS and the number of procedures performed in the United States is limited.