(n) (pregnancy) extraction by centesis of amniotic fluid from a pregnant woman (after the 15th week of pregnancy) to aid in the diagnosis of fetal abnormalities, Syn. amnio
‖n. [ L., fr. Gr. parake`nthsis, fr. parakentei^n to pierce at the side, to tap. ] (Med.) The perforation of a cavity of the body with a trocar, aspirator, or other suitable instrument, for the evacuation of effused fluid, pus, or gas; tapping. [ 1913 Webster ]
‖n. [ NL., fr. Gr. &unr_; thorax + &unr_; pricking, from &unr_; to prick, stab. ] (Surg.) The operation of puncturing the chest wall so as to let out liquids contained in the cavity of the chest. [ 1913 Webster ]