The role of cephalocentesis in modern obstetrics

ive: Destructive procedures to permit vaginal delivery of the fetus with hydrocephalus are rarely performed. Study Design: We performed intrapartum cephalocentesis in 3 cases in which alobar holoprosencephaly was diagnosed in the third trimester. Results: All 3 fetuses were stillborn. Two delivered vaginally, and one delivered abdominally with a lower uterine incision. Conclusions: A reappraisal of the proper role of cephalocentesis in modern obstetrics is offered. (Am J Obstet Gynecol 2001;185: 734-6.)