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Noll ATR, Gijtenbeek M, Verweij EJTJ, Lewi L, Herling L, Haak MC. Cardiac adaptation and malformation in twin-twin transfusion syndrome and selective fetal growth restriction: A systematic review. Prenat Diagn 2024. [PMID: 38643403 DOI: 10.1002/pd.6575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Revised: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/22/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This systematic review explores cardiac adaptation in monochorionic (MC) twins with twin-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS) or selective fetal growth restriction (sFGR) and assesses the risk of congenital heart defects (CHDs). METHODS Adhering to PRISMA guidelines, 63 studies were reviewed (49 on cardiac adaptation, 13 on CHD, one on both). A narrative synthesis of cardiac adaptation patterns was performed. Additionally, a meta-analysis compared the livebirth prevalence of CHD in TTTS and sFGR against uncomplicated MC twins. RESULTS In TTTS recipients, cardiac function may be impaired for diastolic, systolic, as well as global functions, while in donors, cardiac function is generally preserved. In sFGR, large twins may show hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, and small twins may show impaired systolic function. Co-occurrence of TTTS and sFGR magnifies cardiac impact but is often underreported. Meta-analysis for CHD prevalence revealed a relative risk ratio of 3.5 (95% CI: 2.5-4.9) for TTTS and 2.2 (95%CI: 1.3-3.5) for sFGR compared with uncomplicated MC twins. CONCLUSIONS This study highlights the well-documented cardiac adaptation in TTTS, contrasting with limited understanding in sFGR. Elevated CHD risks were observed in both conditions. Enhanced cardiovascular surveillance is warranted in complicated MC twin pregnancies. Future research should explore cardiac adaptation in sFGR and its long-term consequences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne T R Noll
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Fetal Therapy, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Center for Fetal Medicine, Pregnancy Care and Delivery, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Manon Gijtenbeek
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Fetal Therapy, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - E J T Joanne Verweij
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Fetal Therapy, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Liesbeth Lewi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Biomedical Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Lotta Herling
- Center for Fetal Medicine, Pregnancy Care and Delivery, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Monique C Haak
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Fetal Therapy, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
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Uncomplicated Monochorionic Twins: Two Normal Hearts Sharing One Placenta. J Clin Med 2020; 9:jcm9113602. [PMID: 33182282 PMCID: PMC7695261 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9113602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2020] [Revised: 10/24/2020] [Accepted: 11/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Cardiovascular dysfunction has been reported in complicated monochorionic diamniotic (MCDA) pregnancies; however, little is known whether hemodynamic changes occur in uncomplicated MCDA twins. A prospective observational study was conducted including 100 uncomplicated MCDA twins matched by gestational age to 200 low-risk singletons. Echocardiography was performed at 26-30 weeks gestation and cord blood B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) was measured at delivery. In both groups, z-scores for echocardiographic parameters were within normal ranges; however the monochorionic group had larger atrial areas (mean (standard deviation) right atria-to-heart ratio: 17.0 (2) vs. 15.9 (1); p = 0.018; left atria-to-heart ratio: 17.0 (3) vs. 15.8 (2); p < 0.001) and signs of concentric hypertrophy (right relative wall thickness: 0.66 (0.12) vs. 0.56 (0.11); p < 0.001; left relative wall thickness: 0.69 (0.14) vs. 0.58 (0.12); p < 0.001). Longitudinal function was increased in twins, leading to higher tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (6.9 mm (0.9) vs. 5.9 mm (0.7); p < 0.001) and mitral annular plane systolic excursion (4.9 mm (0.8) vs. 4.4 mm (1.1); p < 0.001. BNP levels at birth were also higher in MCDA twins (median [interquartile range]: 20.81 pg/mL [16.69-34.01] vs. 13.14 pg/mL [9.17-19.84]; p < 0.001). Thus, uncomplicated MCDA fetuses have normal cardiac shape and function, but signs of cardiac adaptation were identified by echocardiographic and biochemical parameters, when compared with singletons.
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Early postnatal cardiac follow-up of survivors of twin-twin transfusion syndrome treated with fetoscopic laser coagulation. J Perinatol 2020; 40:1375-1382. [PMID: 32152494 DOI: 10.1038/s41372-020-0645-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2019] [Accepted: 02/25/2020] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the cardiac function and prevalence of congenital heart defects (CHD) in twin-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS) survivors. STUDY DESIGN Prospective follow-up of TTTS pregnancies treated with laser surgery (2015-2018). Echocardiography was performed 1 day and 1 month after birth (corrected for prematurity). Results were compared with a control group of age-matched uncomplicated monochorionic twin-pairs at 1 month. RESULT Eighty-nine TTTS (168 neonates) and nine control pregnancies (18 neonates) were enrolled. CHD birth prevalence was 9.2% (8/87) in recipients and 13.6% (11/81) in donors (p = 0.37). Four of 19 (21%) were detected prenatally, all pulmonary stenosis. Donors had lower aortic peak velocities compared with recipients at day 1 (0.66 ± 0.15 m/s vs 0.71 ± 0.19 m/s, p = 0.04) and 1 month (1.04 ± 0.21 m/s vs 1.11 ± 0.18 m/s, p = 0.02), but not compared with controls. CONCLUSION CHD prevalence in TTTS survivors is high, with a low prenatal detection of minor abnormalities. Follow-up fetal echocardiograms and a postnatal echocardiogram should be offered.
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Gijtenbeek M, Shirzada MR, Ten Harkel ADJ, Oepkes D, C Haak M. Congenital Heart Defects in Monochorionic Twins: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. J Clin Med 2019; 8:E902. [PMID: 31238552 PMCID: PMC6617007 DOI: 10.3390/jcm8060902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2019] [Revised: 06/14/2019] [Accepted: 06/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Monochorionic (MC) twins are at an increased risk of developing congenital heart defects (CHDs) compared to singletons and dichorionic twins. The development of acquired CHDs in this specific group of twins is associated with twin-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS). We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to provide an overview of the reported birth prevalence of CHDs in liveborn MC twins with and without TTTS. Twelve studies were included in this review. Compared to the reference population, MC twins were 6.3 times more likely to be born with a CHD (59.3 per 1000 liveborn twins; relative risk (RR) 6.3; 95% confidence interval (CI): 4.4-9.1), and TTTS twins had a 12-fold increased risk of having a CHD at birth (87.3 per 1000 live births; RR 12.4, 95% CI: 8.6-17.8). The increased incidence of CHDs can mainly be attributed to the risk of right ventricular outflow tract obstruction (35/1000 TTTS twin live births vs. 0.5/1000 singleton live births). We recommend an expert fetal echocardiogram in all MC twins, follow-up scans in the event of TTTS, and a postnatal cardiac evaluation in all TTTS survivors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manon Gijtenbeek
- Division of Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics, Leiden University Medical Center, PO Box 9600, NL-2300 RC Leiden, The Netherlands.
| | - Maryam R Shirzada
- Division of Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics, Leiden University Medical Center, PO Box 9600, NL-2300 RC Leiden, The Netherlands.
| | - Arend D J Ten Harkel
- Division of Pediatric Cardiology, Department of Pediatrics, Leiden University Medical Center, PO Box 9600, NL-2300 RC Leiden, The Netherlands.
| | - Dick Oepkes
- Division of Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics, Leiden University Medical Center, PO Box 9600, NL-2300 RC Leiden, The Netherlands.
| | - Monique C Haak
- Division of Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics, Leiden University Medical Center, PO Box 9600, NL-2300 RC Leiden, The Netherlands.
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Eschbach SJ, Ten Harkel ADJ, Middeldorp JM, Klumper FJCM, Oepkes D, Lopriore E, Haak MC. Acquired right ventricular outflow tract obstruction in twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome; a prospective longitudinal study. Prenat Diagn 2018; 38:1013-1019. [PMID: 30365169 DOI: 10.1002/pd.5378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2018] [Revised: 10/07/2018] [Accepted: 10/12/2018] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The pathophysiology of right ventricular outflow tract obstruction (RVOTO) in twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS) recipients is incompletely understood. We aimed to investigate the development and spectrum of RVOTO in TTTS recipients. METHODS A prospective longitudinal cohort study was conducted between 2015 and 2017. Echocardiographic assessment was performed in recipients from TTTS diagnosis until the neonatal period. RESULTS Prenatal RVOTO, defined as abnormal flow velocity waveforms across the pulmonary valve (PV), was diagnosed in 12.9% (16/124) of recipients at TTTS diagnosis. Postnatal RVOTO was found in 6.7% (7/105) of surviving recipients. All recipients with severe postnatal RVOTO showed prenatal RVOTO at TTTS diagnosis. In 5.6% (6/108) of cases, prenatal RVOTO appeared only after laser therapy, and in 1.9% (2/108), this progressed to mild postnatal pulmonary stenosis. Elevated peak systolic PV velocities were more frequently associated with postnatal RVOTO compared with prenatal finding of functional pulmonary atresia. Postnatal RVOTO was associated with early manifestation of TTTS but was equally found in all Quintero stages. CONCLUSION In the spectrum of postnatal RVOTO, severe cases show prenatal RVOTO at TTTS diagnosis. However, RVOTO can develop after laser or even in the neonatal period and in all Quintero stages. A potential risk factor for postnatal RVOTO is early TTTS manifestation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanne J Eschbach
- Department of Obstetrics, Division of Fetal Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Arend D J Ten Harkel
- Department of Pediatric Cardiology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Johanna M Middeldorp
- Department of Obstetrics, Division of Fetal Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Frans J C M Klumper
- Department of Obstetrics, Division of Fetal Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Dick Oepkes
- Department of Obstetrics, Division of Fetal Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Enrico Lopriore
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Monique C Haak
- Department of Obstetrics, Division of Fetal Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
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Sylwestrzak O, Respondek-Liberska M. Echocardiographic Methods of Fetal Heart Size Assessmentheart to Chest Area Ratio and Transversal Heart Diameter. PRENATAL CARDIOLOGY 2018. [DOI: 10.1515/pcard-2018-0003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Introduction: Ultrasound assessment of fetal heart size (FHS) is widely used and recommended in many guidelines of fetal echocardiography due to its clinical value. The aim of this study was an analysis of some fetal heart measurements: ratio of heart area to chest area (HA/ CA) and transversal diameter of heart (AP) and their correlation to gestational age.
Material and methods: This retrospective study was based on database of records of ultrasound and echocardiographic examinations performed in our unit and included fetuses between 15th and 39th week of gestation with no evidence of heart defect or any abnormality.
Results: 609 ultrasound examinations were analyzed. The mean HA/CA was 0,30 ± 0,015, with no statistical difference between female and male (p>0,05), and seemed to be relatively constant with slight increase with advancing gestational age. The AP diameter in whole group correlated with gestational age (r=0,94) and there was no difference related to the fetuses gender.
Conclusion: The correlation of AP diameter and relative constancy of HA/CA ratio with gestational age presented in our normograms could be used for monitoring fetal development, but also for fetal cardiomegaly assessment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oskar Sylwestrzak
- Medical University of Lodz, 3th Grade, Student Science Club "Prenatal Cardiology", Lodz , Poland
| | - Maria Respondek-Liberska
- Department of Diagnosis and Prophylaxis of Congenital Malformations of Medical University of Lodz , Poland
- Department of Prenatal Cardiology of Polish Mother’s Memorial Hospital Research Institute in Lodz , Poland
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Eschbach SJ, Boons LSTM, Van Zwet E, Middeldorp JM, Klumper FJCM, Lopriore E, Teunissen AKK, Rijlaarsdam ME, Oepkes D, Ten Harkel ADJ, Haak MC. Right ventricular outflow tract obstruction in complicated monochorionic twin pregnancy. ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY OF ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY 2017; 49:737-743. [PMID: 27363529 DOI: 10.1002/uog.16008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2016] [Revised: 06/16/2016] [Accepted: 06/17/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Severe right ventricular outflow tract obstruction (RVOTO) is a potential complication in recipient twins of twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS) that requires postnatal follow-up or treatment. We aimed to evaluate pregnancy characteristics of neonates with RVOTO from complicated monochorionic twin pregnancies, determine the incidence of RVOTO in TTTS cases and construct a prediction model for its development. METHODS This was an observational cohort study of all complicated monochorionic twin pregnancies with a postnatal diagnosis of RVOTO examined at our center. Cases were referred for evaluation of the need for fetal therapy or intervention because of TTTS, selective intrauterine growth restriction (sIUGR) or multiple congenital malformations in one of the twins. Ultrasound data were retrieved from our monochorionic twin database. Among liveborn TTTS recipients treated prenatally with laser therapy, those with RVOTO were compared with those without RVOTO (controls). We describe four additional cases with RVOTO that were not TTTS recipients. RESULTS A total of 485 twin pregnancies received laser therapy for TTTS during the study period. RVOTO was diagnosed in 3% (11/368) of liveborn TTTS recipients, of whom two showed mild Ebstein's anomaly. Before laser therapy, pericardial effusion was seen in 45% (5/11) of RVOTO cases (P < 0.01) and abnormal A-wave in the ductus venosus (DV) in 73% (8/11) (P = 0.03), significantly higher proportions than in controls. Mean gestational age at laser therapy was 17 + 3 weeks in RVOTO cases compared with 20 + 3 weeks in controls (P = 0.03). A prediction model for RVOTO was constructed incorporating these three significant variables. One TTTS donor had RVOTO after the development of transient hydrops following laser therapy. Three larger twins in pregnancies complicated by sIUGR developed RVOTO, the onset of which was detectable early in the second trimester. CONCLUSIONS RVOTO occurs in TTTS recipient twins but can also develop in TTTS donors and larger twins of pregnancies complicated by sIUGR. Abnormal flow in the DV, pericardial effusion and early gestational age at onset of TTTS are predictors of RVOTO in TTTS recipients, which suggests increased vulnerability to hemodynamic imbalances in the fetal heart in early pregnancy. These findings could guide diagnostic follow-up protocols after TTTS treatment. Copyright © 2016 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
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Affiliation(s)
- S J Eschbach
- Division of Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - L S T M Boons
- Division of Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - E Van Zwet
- Department of Medical Statistics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - J M Middeldorp
- Division of Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - F J C M Klumper
- Division of Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - E Lopriore
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - A K K Teunissen
- Division of Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - M E Rijlaarsdam
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - D Oepkes
- Division of Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - A D J Ten Harkel
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - M C Haak
- Division of Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
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8
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Abstract
This review addresses the physiology of monochorionic diamniotic (MC/DA) twins and the potential for twin–twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS). It focuses on the underlying cardiovascular pathophysiology of TTTS and the cardiovascular impact of TTTS for both the recipient and the donor twin. It explains the principles for assessment and monitoring of these cardiovascular changes and how these may be used to guide pregnancy management. Finally, it describes the effect of treatment on the altered hemodynamics and how this can influence pregnancy and perinatal management, as well as longer-term follow-up.
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Pruetz JD, Schrager SM, Wang TV, Llanes A, Chmait RH, Vanderbilt DL. Blood pressure evaluation in children treated with laser surgery for twin-twin transfusion syndrome at 2-year follow-up. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2015; 213:417.e1-7. [PMID: 26003061 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2015.05.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2015] [Revised: 03/06/2015] [Accepted: 05/14/2015] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Twin survivors of twin-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS) may be at risk for early onset of cardiovascular disease. The aim of this study was to determine prevalence and risk factors for elevated blood pressure (BP) among children treated with selective laser photocoagulation of communicating vessels. STUDY DESIGN Data were prospectively collected from surviving children treated for TTTS with laser surgery from 2008 through 2010. Systolic BP (SBP) and diastolic BP (DBP) were obtained from 91 child survivors at age 24 months (±6 weeks) and evaluated based on age, sex, and height percentile. BP percentiles were calculated for each patient and categorized as normal (<95%) or abnormal (>95%). Clinical variables were evaluated using multilevel regression models to evaluate risk factors for elevated BP. RESULTS BP was categorized as normal in 38% and abnormal in 62% of twin survivors based on percentile for sex, age, and height; a comparable distribution was found for DBP elevation. There were no differences between donor and recipient twins for absolute SBP and DBP or BP classification. In a multivariate analysis, significant risk factors for higher SBP included prematurity (β -0.54; 95% confidence interval [CI], -0.99 to -0.09; P = .02), higher weight percentile (β 0.24; 95% CI, 0.05-0.42; P = .01), and presence of cardiac disease (β 0.50; 95% CI, 0.10-0.89; P = .01). Prematurity was also a significant risk for abnormal DBP (odds ratio, 0.89; 95% CI, 0.80-1.00; P = .05). CONCLUSION Child survivors of TTTS had elevated SBP and DBP measurements at 2 years of age, with no differences seen between former donor and recipient twins. Prematurity may be a risk factor for elevated BP measurements in this population. Future studies are warranted to ascertain whether these cardiovascular findings persist over time.
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Stagnati V, Chalouhi GE, Essaoui M, Giuseppi A, Stirnemann JJ, Le Bidois J, Ville Y. Pulmonary stenosis in complicated monochorionic twin pregnancies: prevalence, management and outcome. Prenat Diagn 2015; 35:1085-92. [DOI: 10.1002/pd.4650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2014] [Revised: 06/06/2015] [Accepted: 07/06/2015] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- V. Stagnati
- National Referral Centre for Twin-to-Twin Transfusion Syndrome; Paris-Descartes University, Necker-Enfants-Malades Hospital, APHP; Paris France
- Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine Department; Necker-Enfants-Malades Hospital, APHP, Paris V University; Paris France
- Maternal Fetal Medicine Unit; University of Brescia, Spedali Civili di Brescia; Brescia Italy
| | - G. E. Chalouhi
- National Referral Centre for Twin-to-Twin Transfusion Syndrome; Paris-Descartes University, Necker-Enfants-Malades Hospital, APHP; Paris France
- Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine Department; Necker-Enfants-Malades Hospital, APHP, Paris V University; Paris France
| | - M. Essaoui
- National Referral Centre for Twin-to-Twin Transfusion Syndrome; Paris-Descartes University, Necker-Enfants-Malades Hospital, APHP; Paris France
- Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine Department; Necker-Enfants-Malades Hospital, APHP, Paris V University; Paris France
| | - A. Giuseppi
- Neonatology Department; Necker-Enfants-Malades Hospital, APHP, Paris V University; Paris France
| | - J. J. Stirnemann
- National Referral Centre for Twin-to-Twin Transfusion Syndrome; Paris-Descartes University, Necker-Enfants-Malades Hospital, APHP; Paris France
- Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine Department; Necker-Enfants-Malades Hospital, APHP, Paris V University; Paris France
| | - J. Le Bidois
- Pediatric Cardiology Department; Necker-Enfants-Malades Hospital, APHP, Paris V University; Paris France
| | - Y. Ville
- National Referral Centre for Twin-to-Twin Transfusion Syndrome; Paris-Descartes University, Necker-Enfants-Malades Hospital, APHP; Paris France
- Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine Department; Necker-Enfants-Malades Hospital, APHP, Paris V University; Paris France
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11
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Herberg U, Bolay J, Graeve P, Hecher K, Bartmann P, Breuer J. Intertwin cardiac status at 10-year follow-up after intrauterine laser coagulation therapy of severe twin-twin transfusion syndrome: comparison of donor, recipient and normal values. Arch Dis Child Fetal Neonatal Ed 2014; 99:F380-5. [PMID: 24972991 DOI: 10.1136/archdischild-2013-305034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS), genetically identical twins are exposed to different haemodynamic conditions during fetal life, which are considered to be the cause of prenatal and postnatal cardiovascular differences between the donor and the recipient. OBJECTIVE To assess intertwin differences on childhood cardiac outcome after intrauterine laser coagulation therapy (LC) of severe TTTS. DESIGN AND PATIENTS Prospective, detailed, echocardiographic follow-up of 31 twin pairs aged 9.95±0.8 years (mean±SD) with severe TTTS treated by LC, and the comparison with reference values. RESULTS Cardiac function was normal and did not show intertwin differences in twins without structural heart disease. Discordant birth weight or birth weight <3rd centile for gestational age had no influence on blood pressure and cardiac indices. Pulmonary stenosis was more common (5/62; 8.1%) than in the general population (prevalence 0.066%, relative risk 134.4, 95% CI 42.1 to 428.8, p<0.0001) and affected both donor and recipient. Intertwin differences in late diastolic right ventricular filling (peak velocities: recipient 0.51±0.11 m/s vs donor 0.45±0.10 m/s, mean difference 0.74 m/s, 95% CI 0.23 to 1.24, p=0.009) and early septal relaxation (mean myocardial velocities: recipient -8.2±1.5 cm/s vs donor -8.9±1.2 cm/s, mean difference 0.7 cm/s, 95% CI 0.02 to 1.38, p=0.044) were found only when twins with right heart disease were included. CONCLUSIONS Despite severe prenatal cardiac involvement, childhood cardiac function is normal in the majority of surviving donors and recipients after successful LC of severe TTTS. This underlines the favourable impact of intrauterine LC on postnatal cardiovascular performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ulrike Herberg
- Division of Pediatric Cardiology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Julian Bolay
- Division of Pediatric Cardiology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Pauline Graeve
- Division of Neonatology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Kurt Hecher
- Department of Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Peter Bartmann
- Division of Neonatology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Johannes Breuer
- Division of Pediatric Cardiology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
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Maschke C, Diemert A, Hecher K, Bartmann P. Long-term outcome after intrauterine laser treatment for twin-twin transfusion syndrome. Prenat Diagn 2011; 31:647-53. [PMID: 21660996 DOI: 10.1002/pd.2797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2011] [Revised: 05/04/2011] [Accepted: 05/04/2011] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Twin-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS) is a severe complication occurring in about 10% of monochorionic twin pregnancies. The chronic unbalanced transfusion of blood across placental vascular communications from the donor to the recipient twin may lead to impairment of various organ systems in the affected twins. In Hamburg, Germany, since 1995 patients with TTTS were treated with fetoscopic laser coagulation as the first causal therapeutic strategy. All survivors after laser surgery were followed up in the University Children's Hospital in Bonn, Germany. In this article, we summarize long-term follow-up studies from our German study population and compare our results with data from the literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cornelia Maschke
- Department of Neonatology, University Childrens' Hospital, Bonn, Germany.
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13
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Moon-Grady AJ, Rand L, Lemley B, Gosnell K, Hornberger LK, Lee H. Effect of selective fetoscopic laser photocoagulation therapy for twin-twin transfusion syndrome on pulmonary valve pathology in recipient twins. ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY OF ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY 2011; 37:27-33. [PMID: 20632308 DOI: 10.1002/uog.7748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the impact of selective fetoscopic laser photocoagulation (SFLP) on pre-existing pulmonary valve pathology in the recipient twin in twin-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS). METHODS We evaluated preoperative echocardiograms of all pregnancies with TTTS treated with SFLP at our institution from 2001 to 2009 (n = 76). Sixteen (21%) recipients had an abnormal pulmonary valve (stenosis/dysplasia, insufficiency or functional atresia) before SFLP. Postoperative echocardiograms and medical records from these 16 recipients were reviewed. Changes in pulmonary valve structure and function, and overall cardiac function, were noted after SFLP. RESULTS The mean gestational age at SFLP was 21 (range, 18.7-24.3) weeks. Seven of sixteen (44%) recipients with abnormal pulmonary valve prior to SFLP survived. Six of the 16 (37.5%) recipient twins had documented absence of persistent pulmonary valve abnormalities at birth or at autopsy. Two (12.5%) of the 16 recipients (2.6% of the original cohort) had persistent pulmonary valve abnormalities at birth, requiring intervention. Systolic and diastolic function improved or normalized after SFLP in all patients undergoing longitudinal follow-up. There was a tendency for a better cardiovascular profile score (best = 10 points) at initial evaluation in pregnancies with survivors compared with those with no survivors (mean (SD): 5.6 (2.2) vs. 6.75 (1.28)), but this was not statistically significant. Severity of cardiac involvement did not predict persistence of valve pathology or survival. CONCLUSIONS SFLP can improve flow through the pulmonary valve of the recipient twin in TTTS, probably as a consequence of improvements in right ventricular systolic and diastolic function. However, pulmonary valve pathology may persist and require postnatal intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- A J Moon-Grady
- Pediatric Cardiology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
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Habli M, Cnota J, Michelfelder E, Salisbury S, Schnell B, Polzin W, Lim FY, Crombleholme TM. The relationship between amniotic fluid levels of brain-type natriuretic peptide and recipient cardiomyopathy in twin-twin transfusion syndrome. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2010; 203:404.e1-7. [PMID: 20719292 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2010.06.070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2010] [Revised: 05/18/2010] [Accepted: 06/29/2010] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We sought to evaluate amniotic fluid brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) levels as a biomarker of recipient twin (RT) cardiomyopathy (RTCM) in twin-twin transfusion syndrome. STUDY DESIGN Amniotic fluid samples were obtained from 157 twin-twin transfusion syndrome RTs and from 6 singletons (controls) from 2007 through 2009. N-terminal prohormone BNP (NT-proBNP) levels were quantified by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. RTCM was classified as mild (IIIA), moderate (IIIB), or severe (IIIC) by fetal echocardiography. The relationship between NT-proBNP and RTCM was evaluated using analysis of variance. The ability of NT-proBNP to predict moderate or greater RTCM was evaluated by receiver operating characteristic analysis. RESULTS There is a significant positive correlation between NT-proBNP levels and worsening RTCM (r = 0.33; P < .001). NT-proBNP thresholds of 569 fmol/mg and 369 fmol/mg had a sensitivity of 70% and 87%, and specificity of 67% and 42%, respectively, in predicting moderate or greater RTCM. CONCLUSION This is the first large case series that demonstrates a relationship between NT-proBNP and RTCM. This pathophysiologic insight supports ongoing efforts to develop screening biomarkers.
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Abstract
Twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome is a severe complication occurring in 10% of monochorionic twin pregnancies. The disease is usually explained as due to an intrauterine imbalance in intertwin blood exchange, which leads to a volume depleted-donor twin and an overfilled recipient twin. The recipient has signs of cardiac dysfunction, which can be measured using echocardiography or blood and amniotic fluid derived biomarkers. Whereas cardiac dysfunction typically progresses in pregnancies treated with amniodrainage, it usually disappears within a few weeks after fetoscopic laser coagulation of the connecting intertwin anastomoses. Nevertheless, recipients remain at a increased risk of pulmonary stenosis. In this paper, we summarize the cardiac alterations in twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome, describe the changes seen after fetal therapy, list the newly proposed staging systems based on fetal cardiac function, and make recommendations about the use of fetal echocardiography in the evaluation and followup of pregnancies complicated by twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome.
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Habli M, Lim FY, Crombleholme T. Twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome: a comprehensive update. Clin Perinatol 2009; 36:391-416, x. [PMID: 19559327 DOI: 10.1016/j.clp.2009.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS) is a serious complication in about 10% to 20% of monozygous twin gestations with an incidence of 4% to 35% in the United States. Severe TTTS is reported to occur in 5.5% to 17.5% of cases. TTTS is a progressive disease in which sudden deteriorations in clinical status can occur, leading to death of a co-twin. Up to 30% of survivors may have abnormal neurodevelopment as a result of the combination of profound antenatal insult and the complications of severe prematurity. This article presents an overview of what is known about the pathophysiology and the diagnosis of TTTS, the role of echocardiography in TTTS, treatment options available for TTTS, complications of treatment for TTTS, and short- and long-term outcomes of TTTS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mounira Habli
- The Fetal Care Center of Cincinnati, Cincinnati Children's Hospital, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 45229-3039, USA
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