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Key content The results of prenatal fetal chromosomal analysis may inform long term prognosis., Recent advances in chromosome microarray (CMA) are enabling genome-wide evaluation of submicroscopic chromosomal changes., Such technological advances promise increased sensitivity and specificity. They also potentially pose challenges of interpretation and clinical management., Learning objectives To systematically review the current literature and explain the benefit and pitfalls of CMAs and their relevance to the practising obstetrician in the NHS., Comment on the future of CMA and its cost effectiveness., Ethical issues Difficulties of informed consent with genome-wide prenatal testing., Difficulties surround results of unknown significance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives To determine the level of patient knowledge regarding the 20-week screening ultrasound examination, which is performed on over 95% of women in our unit, and to ascertain whether the use of targeted education could improve patient knowledge and expectations, to determine from where patients obtained information on the scan and to ascertain whether patients felt they had chosen to undergo the scan. Methods An anonymous questionnaire was issued to all patients attending for their 20-week scan over a 3-week period in July 2002 (n = 220). There were nine questions, focusing on maternal choice, information and knowledge. As a result of the information obtained, we undertook a program of education for hospital and community medical and midwifery staff. A printed information sheet given to the patients at the time of booking their 20-week scan was introduced. We then issued the questionnaire for another 3-week period in July 2003 (n = 171). Results As a result of our education program, there was a significant increase in the number of women answering various knowledge-based questions correctly about the 20-week scan, in those using the written information provided as a source of information (P < 0.0001), and in those who felt they had been involved in the decision to have the scan (P = 0.003). Conclusions Patients need to be better informed about the 20-week scan, and choose whether or not to have it. Health professionals are pivotal in this process. While written information helps to reinforce the information given, alone it has only a small effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]