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Post AL. Managing Monoamniotic Twin Pregnancies. Clin Obstet Gynecol 2023; 66:841-853. [PMID: 37910073 DOI: 10.1097/grf.0000000000000817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2023]
Abstract
Monoamniotic twins comprise a rare subset of twins at risk of unique and serious complications. In addition to the risks faced by all twins (premature birth, growth restriction), all monochorionic twins (twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome), and all monozygotic twins (congenital anomalies), monoamniotic twins face the unique risk of cord entanglement, in addition to a markedly increased risk of congenital anomalies. Early diagnosis, screening for fetal anomalies and surveillance for twin-twin transfusion syndrome are critical. After fetal viability, frequent fetal monitoring reduces the risk of intrauterine fetal demise.
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Kozinszky Z, Surányi A. The High-Risk Profile of Selective Growth Restriction in Monochorionic Twin Pregnancies. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2023; 59:medicina59040648. [PMID: 37109605 PMCID: PMC10141888 DOI: 10.3390/medicina59040648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023]
Abstract
The present review aims to provide a critical appraisal of the sonographic diagnosis and follow-up and to evaluate the optimal clinical management of monochorionic twin pregnancies where one of the twins is complicated by selective fetal growth restriction (sFGR). The classification is based on the umbilical artery (UA) diastolic flow reflecting the outcome. If the sFGR twin has positive diastolic flow (Type I) then the prognosis is good, and it does not require close surveillance. Biweekly or weekly sonographic and Doppler surveillance and fetal monitoring are recommended strategies to detect unpredictable complications in type II and type III forms, which are defined by persistently absent/reverse end-diastolic flow (AREDF) or cyclically intermittent absent/reverse end-diastolic flow (iAREDF) in the umbilical waveforms, respectively. The latest forms are associated with an increased risk of unexpected fetal demise of the smaller twin and 10-20% risk of neurological injury in the larger twin in addition to the overall risk of prematurity. The clinical course can be affected by elective fetal therapy ('dichorinization' of the placenta with laser or selective fetal reduction) or elective delivery in the presence of severe fetal deterioration. The prediction of the clinical outcome in complicated cases of type II and III sFGR cases remains elusive. Novel routines in fetal and placental scans in order to predict neurological impairments and unexpected fetal death to optimize the delivery time-point are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zoltan Kozinszky
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Danderyds Hospital, 182 88 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Andrea Surányi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Albert Szent-Györgyi Medical School, University of Szeged, 6725 Szeged, Hungary
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Périnet AC, Massoud M, Picard L, Fichez A, Huissoud C, Nadaud B, Rault E. [Comparison of foetal and neonatal mortality of monochorionic monoamniotic and monochorionic biamniotic twin pregnancies]. GYNECOLOGIE, OBSTETRIQUE, FERTILITE & SENOLOGIE 2023; 51:123-128. [PMID: 36539075 DOI: 10.1016/j.gofs.2022.11.151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2022] [Revised: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To compare the mortality of monochorionic-monoamniotic (MCMA) and monochorionic-biamniotic (MCBA) twin pregnancies, from 14weeks of gestation to 28th day of life, before and after exclusion of major congenital malformations. METHODS We conducted a retrospective cohort study in two level 3 maternity units of the Hospices civils de Lyon (France) including all patients with a monochorionic twin pregnancy between January 2013 and December 2020. We excluded TRAP sequences and conjoined twins. RESULTS A total of 38 MCMA and 658 MCBA pregnancies were included. We showed an increase in overall mortality in the MCMA group compared to the MCBA group (31.6% versus 16.4%, P=0.03) even after exclusion of major congenital malformations (20.3% versus 9.5%, P=0.01). The main cause of mortality found in the MCMA group was the occurrence of unexpected IUGR. CONCLUSIONS MCMA pregnancies have a higher foetal and neonatal mortality rate than MCBA pregnancies even after exclusion of congenital malformations related to the occurrence of unexpected MFIU.
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Affiliation(s)
- A-C Périnet
- Service de gynécologie-obstétrique, Hôpital Femme-Mère-Enfant, Hospices Civils de Lyon, 59, boulevard Pinel, 69500 Bron, France
| | - M Massoud
- Service de gynécologie-obstétrique, Hôpital Femme-Mère-Enfant, Hospices Civils de Lyon, 59, boulevard Pinel, 69500 Bron, France; Centre de Recherche en Neurosciences de Lyon, Inserm U1028 - CNRS UMR5292 - Université Lyon 1; Centre Hospitalier Le Vinatier, Bâtiment 462 - Neurocampus Michel Jouvet, 95, boulevard Pinel, 69675 Bron, France
| | - L Picard
- Service de gynécologie-obstétrique, Hôpital Femme-Mère-Enfant, Hospices Civils de Lyon, 59, boulevard Pinel, 69500 Bron, France
| | - A Fichez
- Service de gynécologie-obstétrique, Hôpital de la Croix Rousse, Hospices Civils de Lyon, 103, Gd rue de la Croix-Rousse, 69004 Lyon, France
| | - C Huissoud
- Service de gynécologie-obstétrique, Hôpital Femme-Mère-Enfant, Hospices Civils de Lyon, 59, boulevard Pinel, 69500 Bron, France; Service de gynécologie-obstétrique, Hôpital de la Croix Rousse, Hospices Civils de Lyon, 103, Gd rue de la Croix-Rousse, 69004 Lyon, France
| | - B Nadaud
- Laboratoire de biologie médicale et d'anatomie pathologique, Groupement Hospitalier Est, Hospices Civils de Lyon, 59, boulevard Pinel, 69500 Bron, France
| | - E Rault
- Service de gynécologie-obstétrique, Hôpital Femme-Mère-Enfant, Hospices Civils de Lyon, 59, boulevard Pinel, 69500 Bron, France.
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Perinatal outcome in monoamniotic twin pregnancies during a 10-year period: a single center, descriptive study. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2023; 307:233-239. [PMID: 35347381 PMCID: PMC9836963 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-022-06506-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2021] [Accepted: 03/04/2022] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To retrospectively investigate perinatal outcome of monoamniotic twin pregnancies in a tertiary center during a 10 year period. METHODS A retrospective analysis of all monoamniotic pregnancies managed at Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden 2010-2019 was performed. The primary outcomes were live birth rate, neonatal death and perinatal survival. The secondary outcomes were late miscarriage, gestational age at delivery and frequency of fetal complications. RESULTS Twenty-two monoamniotic pregnancies, with 44 fetuses, were identified. Thirty-five of 44 fetuses (80%) were liveborn. Of 36 fetuses reaching 24 weeks gestation, 35 (97%) were liveborn. There were no neonatal deaths, thus the perinatal survival was 97%. The mean gestational age at birth was 32.5 weeks (SD ± 1.5). CONCLUSIONS The live birth rate and perinatal survival of monoamniotic pregnancies managed at Karolinska University Hospital was high and comparable to previously published data.
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Neonatal management and outcome in complicated monochorionic twins: What have we learned in the past decade and what should you know? Best Pract Res Clin Obstet Gynaecol 2022; 84:218-228. [PMID: 35513960 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpobgyn.2022.03.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2022] [Revised: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Monochorionic (MC) twin pregnancies are at increased risk of neonatal morbidity and mortality due to the shared placenta with vascular connections that can give rise to various complications, including twin-twin transfusion syndrome, twin anemia polycythemia sequence (TAPS), selective fetal growth restriction, and other hematological imbalances at birth. Each complication presents its own challenges and considerations in the neonatal period. Measurement of hemoglobin levels and reticulocyte count is required to establish a correct diagnosis. Placenta dye injection is needed to properly distinguish between the various conditions. Risk factors for adverse outcome in MC twins include prematurity, severe cerebral injury, and the type of MC pregnancy complication. We, therefore, recommend cerebral ultrasound examinations in all complicated MC twins at birth to rule out a severe brain injury. Lastly, we strongly encourage screening for hearing loss using automated auditory brainstem response in all spontaneous TAPS donors to prevent permanent speech development delay.
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Lewi L. What fetal medicine specialists should know about the monochorionic placenta. Best Pract Res Clin Obstet Gynaecol 2022; 84:17-32. [PMID: 35430160 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpobgyn.2022.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2022] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Monochorionic twins are at risk of transfusion imbalances as long as they are connected to the shared placenta during their intrauterine journey. This review article addresses the macroscopic examination of the monochorionic placenta at the time of birth and explains placental dye injection studies to document the vascular anastomoses and placental sharing. We elaborate on the different types of anastomoses, the importance of how the placenta is divided between the twins, and the angioarchitecture in twin-twin transfusion syndrome, twin anemia polycythemia sequence and selective fetal growth restriction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liesbeth Lewi
- Fetal Medicine Unit, Dept. Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospitals Leuven, Herestraat 49, 3000 Leuven, Belgium.
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Rao MG, Vieira L, Kaplowitz E, Overbey JR, Johnson S, Paul K, Lookstein R, Rebarber A, Fox NS, Stone J. Elective fetal reduction by radiofrequency ablation in monochorionic diamniotic twins decreases adverse outcomes compared to ongoing monochorionic diamniotic twins. Am J Obstet Gynecol MFM 2021; 3:100447. [PMID: 34314851 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajogmf.2021.100447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2021] [Revised: 07/08/2021] [Accepted: 07/20/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Multifetal pregnancy reduction is a technique used to reduce the fetal number to mitigate the risks of adverse outcomes associated with multiple gestations. Monochorionic diamniotic twin pregnancies are subject to unique complications, contributing to adverse pregnancy outcomes. Thus, patients have an option to electively reduce 1 fetus to improve outcomes. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to compare outcomes of elective reduction of monochorionic diamniotic twins by radiofrequency ablation to planned ongoing monochorionic diamniotic twins. STUDY DESIGN We performed a retrospective review of 315 monochorionic diamniotic twin gestations that underwent first-trimester ultrasound within 1 institution. Planned electively reduced twins were compared with ongoing monochorionic diamniotic twins. All reductions were performed via radiofrequency ablation of the cord insertion site into the fetal abdomen. The primary outcome was preterm birth at <36 weeks' gestation. Secondary outcomes included gestational age at delivery; preterm birth at less than 37-, 34-, 32-, and 28-weeks' gestation; unintended loss; and adverse perinatal outcomes. RESULTS Among 315 monochorionic diamniotic pregnancies, 14 (4.4%) underwent elective multifetal pregnancy reduction, and 301 (95.6%) were planned ongoing twins. The mean gestational age of radiofrequency ablation in the elective multifetal pregnancy reduction group was 15.1±0.68 weeks. Patients who underwent elective multifetal pregnancy reduction had significantly higher maternal age (P<.01) and were more likely to be Asian (P<.01). Moreover, they were more likely to have undergone in vitro fertilization (P=.03) and chorionic villus sampling (P<.01). There was a significantly higher rate of term deliveries in the elective radiofrequency ablation group compared with ongoing twins (gestational age, 38 weeks [interquartile range, 36.1-39.1] vs 35.9 weeks [interquartile range, 34.0-36.9]; P<.01). Patients with ongoing pregnancies had a trend of increased rate of preterm birth at <36 weeks' gestation (odds ratio, 3.4; 95% confidence interval, 1.0-12.0; P=.06), a significantly increased risk of preterm birth at <37 weeks' gestation (odds ratio, 8.0; 95% confidence interval, 2.4-26.4; P<.01), and no difference at less than 34-, 32-, or 28- weeks' gestation. All patients who underwent elective radiofrequency ablation had successful pregnancies with no pregnancy losses or terminations. Of ongoing gestations, 36 required procedures, including 16 (5.3%) medically indicated radiofrequency ablation, 14 (4.6%) laser ablation, and 6 (1.9%) amnioreductions. Furthermore, 22 patients (7.3%) with planned ongoing twins had total pregnancy loss at <24 weeks' gestation. Notably, 12 patients (4.0%) had unintended loss of 1 fetus before 24 weeks' gestation in the ongoing pregnancy cohort, and 12 patients (4.0%) had unintended loss of both fetuses before 24 weeks' gestation. Moreover, 5 patients (1.7%) in the ongoing pregnancy group had intrauterine fetal demise at >24 weeks' gestation and 10 patients (3.3%) electively terminated both fetuses. There was no significant difference in loss rates between the 2 groups. CONCLUSION In this study of monochorionic diamniotic twins, patients who elected to undergo multifetal pregnancy reduction had significantly lower rates of preterm birth at <37 weeks and a lower trend of preterm birth at <36 weeks' gestation without an increased risk of pregnancy loss. Median gestational age at delivery was significantly higher in the elective multifetal pregnancy reduction group (38 weeks) than in the ongoing pregnancy group (35.9 weeks). Further research is needed to clarify if multifetal pregnancy reduction improves long-term outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manasa G Rao
- Departments of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Science (Ms Rao, Drs Vieira and Johnson, Ms Paul, and Drs Lookstein, Rebarber, Fox, and Stone).
| | - Luciana Vieira
- Departments of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Science (Ms Rao, Drs Vieira and Johnson, Ms Paul, and Drs Lookstein, Rebarber, Fox, and Stone)
| | - Elianna Kaplowitz
- Population Health Science and Policy (Ms Kaplowitz and Dr Overbey), Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY
| | - Jessica R Overbey
- Population Health Science and Policy (Ms Kaplowitz and Dr Overbey), Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY
| | - Shaelyn Johnson
- Departments of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Science (Ms Rao, Drs Vieira and Johnson, Ms Paul, and Drs Lookstein, Rebarber, Fox, and Stone)
| | - Keisha Paul
- Departments of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Science (Ms Rao, Drs Vieira and Johnson, Ms Paul, and Drs Lookstein, Rebarber, Fox, and Stone)
| | - Robert Lookstein
- Departments of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Science (Ms Rao, Drs Vieira and Johnson, Ms Paul, and Drs Lookstein, Rebarber, Fox, and Stone)
| | - Andrei Rebarber
- Departments of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Science (Ms Rao, Drs Vieira and Johnson, Ms Paul, and Drs Lookstein, Rebarber, Fox, and Stone)
| | - Nathan S Fox
- Departments of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Science (Ms Rao, Drs Vieira and Johnson, Ms Paul, and Drs Lookstein, Rebarber, Fox, and Stone)
| | - Joanne Stone
- Departments of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Science (Ms Rao, Drs Vieira and Johnson, Ms Paul, and Drs Lookstein, Rebarber, Fox, and Stone)
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Adekola H, Unal ER, Thompson G, Sondgeroth K, Abrams R. Spontaneous septostomy in a monochorionic-diamniotic twin gestation. JOURNAL OF CLINICAL ULTRASOUND : JCU 2021; 49:66-70. [PMID: 33000485 DOI: 10.1002/jcu.22931] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2020] [Revised: 09/08/2020] [Accepted: 09/09/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Monochorionic twin gestations are associated with a greater incidence of neonatal morbidity and mortality when compared with their dichorionic counterparts. In turn, monochorionic-monoamniotic (MCMA) gestations carry greater risks compared with monochorionic-diamniotic (MCDA) gestations. While the true incidence of spontaneous septostomy of the dividing membranes (SSDM) in MCDA twins is unknown, SSDM has been demonstrated to be associated with increased morbidity and mortality, due to functional transition from a MCDA gestation to a MCMA gestation. We report a case of SSDM in a mid-trimester MCDA gestation, review the literature, and describe how to identify and manage this complication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henry Adekola
- Department of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, Illinois, USA
| | - Elizabeth Ramsey Unal
- Department of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, Illinois, USA
| | - Gwyneth Thompson
- Department of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, Illinois, USA
| | - Kristine Sondgeroth
- Department of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, Illinois, USA
| | - Robert Abrams
- Department of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, Illinois, USA
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Chitrit Y, Korb D, Morin C, Schmitz T, Oury JF, Sibony O. Perinatal mortality and morbidity, timing and route of delivery in monoamniotic twin pregnancies: a retrospective cohort study. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2020; 303:685-693. [PMID: 32902675 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-020-05782-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2020] [Accepted: 08/31/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Monoamniotic twin pregnancies are at high risk of perinatal complications and fetal loss. The objective of this study is to describe the management and outcomes of monoamniotic twin pregnancies in a French university obstetrics department. METHODS Retrospective review of all consecutive monoamniotic twin pregnancies managed between 1992 and 2018 in a level-3 university hospital maternity unit. Antenatal variables, gestational age and other neonatal characteristics at delivery, mode of delivery, and its reason were recorded, together with outcomes, including a composite adverse neonatal outcome. RESULTS Overall, 46 monoamniotic twin pregnancies (92 fetuses) were identified during the study period. Among them, 27 fetal losses and 2 early neonatal deaths were reported. Congenital abnormalities accounted for 33.3% of the 27 fetal losses, and unexpected fetal deaths for 29.6%. Among the 37 women who gave birth to 65 live infants at 23 or more weeks of gestation, 17 had cesarean and 19 vaginal deliveries. Overall and composite adverse neonatal outcomes did not differ significantly for the 33 children born vaginally and the 31 by cesarean deliveries. The prospective risk of intrauterine death in all 92 fetuses reached its nadir of 1.8% at 336/7 weeks. CONCLUSION This series confirms the still high risk of fetal and neonatal death of these twins and shows that congenital abnormalities but also unexpected fetal deaths account for the majority of pre- and postnatal mortality. Our data suggest that vaginal delivery of monoamniotic twins is safe and that delivery for uncomplicated monoamniotic twins should be considered around 33 weeks of gestation, but not later than 35 weeks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yvon Chitrit
- Department of Gynecology-Obstetrics, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Robert Debré Hospital, 48, Bd Sérurier, 75935, Paris Cedex 19, France.
| | - Diane Korb
- Department of Gynecology-Obstetrics, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Robert Debré Hospital, 48, Bd Sérurier, 75935, Paris Cedex 19, France.,Epidemiology and Statistics Research Center/CRESS, University of Paris, INSERM, INRA, 75004, Paris, France
| | - Cecile Morin
- Department of Gynecology-Obstetrics, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Robert Debré Hospital, 48, Bd Sérurier, 75935, Paris Cedex 19, France.,Université de Paris, INSERM U1141, 75019, Paris, France
| | - Thomas Schmitz
- Department of Gynecology-Obstetrics, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Robert Debré Hospital, 48, Bd Sérurier, 75935, Paris Cedex 19, France.,Epidemiology and Statistics Research Center/CRESS, University of Paris, INSERM, INRA, 75004, Paris, France
| | - Jean-François Oury
- Department of Gynecology-Obstetrics, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Robert Debré Hospital, 48, Bd Sérurier, 75935, Paris Cedex 19, France.,University of Paris, Paris, France
| | - Olivier Sibony
- Department of Gynecology-Obstetrics, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Robert Debré Hospital, 48, Bd Sérurier, 75935, Paris Cedex 19, France.,University of Paris, Paris, France
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10
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Murgano D, Khalil A, Prefumo F, Mieghem TV, Rizzo G, Heyborne KD, Melchiorre K, Peeters S, Lewi L, Familiari A, Lopriore E, Oepkes D, Murata M, Anselem O, Buca D, Liberati M, Hack K, Nappi L, Baxi LV, Scambia G, Acharya G, D'antonio F. Outcome of twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome in monochorionic monoamniotic twin pregnancy: systematic review and meta-analysis. ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY OF ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY 2020; 55:310-317. [PMID: 31595578 DOI: 10.1002/uog.21889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2019] [Revised: 08/15/2019] [Accepted: 09/18/2019] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To explore the outcome of monochorionic monoamniotic (MCMA) twin pregnancies affected by twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS). METHODS MEDLINE and EMBASE databases were searched for studies reporting the outcome of MCMA twin pregnancies complicated by TTTS. The primary outcome was intrauterine death (IUD); secondary outcomes were miscarriage, single IUD, double IUD, neonatal death (NND), perinatal death (PND), survival of at least one twin, survival of both twins and preterm birth (PTB) before 32 weeks' gestation. Outcomes were assessed in MCMA twins affected by TTTS not undergoing intervention and in those treated with amniodrainage, laser therapy or cord occlusion. Subgroup analysis was performed including cases diagnosed before 24 weeks. Random-effects meta-analysis of proportions was used to analyze the data. RESULTS Fifteen cohort studies, including 888 MCMA twin pregnancies, of which 44 were affected by TTTS, were included in the review. There was no randomized trial comparing the different management options in MCMA twin pregnancies complicated by TTTS. In cases not undergoing intervention, miscarriage occurred in 11.0% of fetuses, while the incidence of IUD, NND and PND was 25.2%, 12.2% and 31.2%, respectively. PTB complicated 50.5% of these pregnancies. In cases treated by laser surgery, the incidence of miscarriage, IUD, NND and PND was 19.6%, 27.4%, 7.4% and 35.9%, respectively, and the incidence of PTB before 32 weeks' gestation was 64.9%. In cases treated with amniodrainage, the incidence of IUD, NND and PND was 31.3%, 13.5% and 45.7% respectively, and PTB complicated 76.2% of these pregnancies. Analysis of cases undergoing cord occlusion was affected by the very small number of included cases. Miscarriage occurred in 19.2%, while there was no case of IUD or NND of the surviving twin. PTB before 32 weeks occurred in 50.0% of these cases. CONCLUSIONS MCMA twin pregnancies complicated by TTTS are at high risk of perinatal mortality and PTB. Further studies are needed in order to elucidate the optimal type of prenatal treatment in these pregnancies. Copyright © 2019 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Murgano
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chieti, Chieti, Italy
| | - A Khalil
- Fetal Medicine Unit, St George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, University of London, London, UK; and Vascular Biology Research Centre, Molecular and Clinical Sciences Research Institute, St George's University of London, London, UK
| | - F Prefumo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Spedali Riunit, Brescia, Italy
| | - T Van Mieghem
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Mount Sinai Hospital and University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - G Rizzo
- Division of Maternal and Fetal Medicine, Ospedale Cristo Re, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - K D Heyborne
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Denver Health and Hospital Authority, Denver, CO, USA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Denver, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - K Melchiorre
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 'Spirito Santo' Hospital, Pescara, Italy
| | - S Peeters
- Department of Obstetrics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - L Lewi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospitals of KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - A Familiari
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fondazione IRCCS, Ca Granda, Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - E Lopriore
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - D Oepkes
- Department of Obstetrics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - M Murata
- Center for Maternal, Fetal and Neonatal Medicine, Fukuoka University Hospital, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - O Anselem
- Maternité Port-Royal, Groupe Hospitalier Cochin-Broca-Hôtel-Dieu, Université Paris Descartes, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Paris, France
| | - D Buca
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chieti, Chieti, Italy
| | - M Liberati
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chieti, Chieti, Italy
| | - K Hack
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Gelre Hospitals, Apeldoorn, The Netherlands
| | - L Nappi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | - L V Baxi
- School of Medicine, Columbia University, New York, USA
| | - G Scambia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Catholic University of The Sacred Heart, Fondazione Policlinico A. Gemelli, Rome, Italy
| | - G Acharya
- Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Center for Fetal Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - F D'antonio
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
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11
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Rotar IC, Zaharie G, Staicu A, Preda A, Mureşan D. Fetal cardiovascular alterations in twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome. Med Pharm Rep 2020; 93:5-11. [PMID: 32133441 PMCID: PMC7051825 DOI: 10.15386/mpr-1481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2019] [Revised: 12/15/2019] [Accepted: 12/30/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS) is the consequence of vascular anastomoses of the shared placenta of monochorionic twin pregnancies. Both circulating inter-twin blood flow and vasoactive mediators imbalance cause hypovolemia in the donor and hypervolemia in the recipient fetus. If left untreated, TTTS has a high perinatal mortality rate and adverse long-term outcomes mainly cardiovascular and neurological. The recipient has cardiovascular changes including atrioventricular valve regurgitation, diastolic dysfunction and pulmonary stenosis/atresia. The maladaptive response to vascular changes determines a constant decreased blood flow in the donor that permanently modifies the arterial structure leading to postnatal alterations in the vascular system. Fetoscopic LASER surgery of placental vascular anastomoses may disrupt the underlying pathophysiology and improves cardiovascular function with normalization of systolic and diastolic function within weeks after treatment. The impact of cardiovascular changes is relevant for the safety of the management of a TTTS case. The improvement of the perinatal survival after intrauterine surgery leads to viable infants with the longer-term sequelae. Therefore accurate quantification of cardiovascular involvement is essential for clinicians for pregnancy management but also for patient counseling about the potential treatment options the outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioana Cristina Rotar
- 1 Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Iuliu Hatieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania.,1 Clinic of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Emergency County Hospital, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Gabriela Zaharie
- Neonatal Department, Iuliu Hatieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania.,Neonatal Department, Emergency County Hospital, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Adelina Staicu
- 1 Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Iuliu Hatieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Andreia Preda
- 1 Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Iuliu Hatieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Daniel Mureşan
- 1 Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Iuliu Hatieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania.,1 Clinic of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Emergency County Hospital, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
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Gleeson EI, Espinoza J, Shamshirsaz AA, Nassr AA, Sanz Cortes M, Belfort MA. Monochorionic monoamniotic twin-twin transfusion syndrome treated with laser ablation. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2019; 246:193-194. [PMID: 31839444 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2019.11.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2019] [Accepted: 11/27/2019] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Emile I Gleeson
- Baylor College of Medicine, School of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
| | - Jimmy Espinoza
- Baylor College of Medicine and Texas Children's Hospital, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, 6651 Main St, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
| | - Alireza A Shamshirsaz
- Baylor College of Medicine and Texas Children's Hospital, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, 6651 Main St, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
| | - Ahmed A Nassr
- Baylor College of Medicine and Texas Children's Hospital, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, 6651 Main St, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
| | - Magdalena Sanz Cortes
- Baylor College of Medicine and Texas Children's Hospital, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, 6651 Main St, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
| | - Michael A Belfort
- Baylor College of Medicine and Texas Children's Hospital, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, 6651 Main St, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
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Kalafat E, Thilaganathan B, Papageorghiou A, Bhide A, Khalil A. Significance of placental cord insertion site in twin pregnancy. ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY OF ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY 2018; 52:378-384. [PMID: 28976606 DOI: 10.1002/uog.18914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2017] [Revised: 08/14/2017] [Accepted: 09/12/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the association between abnormal cord insertion and the development of twin-specific complications, including birth-weight discordance, selective fetal growth restriction (sFGR) and twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS). METHODS This was a single center retrospective cohort study of twin pregnancies. Abnormal cord insertion was defined as either marginal (umbilical cord attachment site less than 2 cm to the nearest margin of the placental disc) or velamentous (cord attached to the membrane before reaching the placental disc with clear evidence of vessels traversing the membranes to connect with the placental disc), as described in placental pathology reports. Twins with major structural or chromosomal abnormalities and monochorionic monoamniotic twins were not included in the study. Information on the pregnancies, ultrasound findings, prenatal investigations and interventions was obtained from the electronic ultrasound database, while data on placental histopathological findings, pregnancy outcome, mode of delivery, birth weight, gestational age at delivery and admission to the neonatal intensive care unit were obtained from maternity records. Categorical variables were compared using the chi-square or Fisher's exact test, while continuous variables were compared using the Student's t-test, ANOVA for multiple comparisons and the Kruskal-Wallis test. RESULTS Of the 497 twin pregnancies included in the analysis, 351 (70.6%) were dichorionic and 146 (29.4%) were monochorionic. The incidence of birth-weight discordance of 25% or more was significantly higher in pregnancies with velamentous and those with marginal cord insertions compared to those with normal cord insertion (24.0%, 15.3% vs 7.6%, P < 0.001 and P = 0.020, respectively). In pregnancies with birth-weight discordance of 25% or more, the smaller twins had significantly higher prevalence of velamentous (13.8%) and marginal (34.2%) cord insertions compared with the larger twins (1.8% and 18.5%, respectively, P < 0.001). The smaller twins of the monochorionic diamniotic pregnancies showed an even higher prevalence of velamentous (29.5%) and marginal (40.9%) cord insertions compared with the larger twins (2.3% and 31.5%, respectively, P < 0.001). Compared with the normal cord insertion group, only velamentous insertion was associated significantly with the risk of sFGR (odds ratio (OR), 9.24 (95% CI, 2.05-58.84), P < 0.001) and birth-weight discordance of 20% or more (OR, 4.34 (95% CI, 1.36-14.61), P = 0.007) and 25% or more (OR, 6.81 (95% CI, 1.67-34.12), P = 0.003) in monochorionic twin pregnancies. There was no significant association between velamentous cord insertion and TTTS (P = 0.591), or between marginal cord insertion and the development of sFGR (P = 0.233), birth-weight discordance of 25% or more (P = 0.114) or TTTS (P = 0.487). Subgroup analysis of dichorionic twins showed that abnormal cord insertion was not associated with the risk of birth-weight discordance (P = 0.999), sFGR (P = 0.308), composite neonatal adverse outcome (P = 0.637) or intrauterine death (P = 0.349). CONCLUSION Monochorionic twins with velamentous cord insertion are at increased risk of birth-weight discordance and sFGR. Sonographic delineation of placental cord insertion could be of value in the antenatal stratification of twin pregnancies. Prospective studies are required to assess the value and predictive accuracy of this potential screening marker. Copyright © 2017 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Kalafat
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ankara University Faculty of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
- Fetal Medicine Unit, St George's Hospital, St George's University of London, London, UK
- Vascular Biology Research Center, Molecular and Clinical Sciences Research Institute, St George's University of London, London, UK
| | - B Thilaganathan
- Fetal Medicine Unit, St George's Hospital, St George's University of London, London, UK
- Vascular Biology Research Center, Molecular and Clinical Sciences Research Institute, St George's University of London, London, UK
| | - A Papageorghiou
- Fetal Medicine Unit, St George's Hospital, St George's University of London, London, UK
- Vascular Biology Research Center, Molecular and Clinical Sciences Research Institute, St George's University of London, London, UK
| | - A Bhide
- Fetal Medicine Unit, St George's Hospital, St George's University of London, London, UK
- Vascular Biology Research Center, Molecular and Clinical Sciences Research Institute, St George's University of London, London, UK
| | - A Khalil
- Fetal Medicine Unit, St George's Hospital, St George's University of London, London, UK
- Vascular Biology Research Center, Molecular and Clinical Sciences Research Institute, St George's University of London, London, UK
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Fitzgerald B. Histopathological examination of the placenta in twin pregnancies. APMIS 2018; 126:626-637. [DOI: 10.1111/apm.12829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2017] [Accepted: 01/30/2018] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Smith J, Treadwell MC, Berman DR. Role of ultrasonography in the management of twin gestation. Int J Gynaecol Obstet 2018. [PMID: 29536536 DOI: 10.1002/ijgo.12483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Twins represent 1%-2% of all pregnancies, yet continue to account for a disproportionate share of neonatal adverse events including neonatal intensive care admission, morbidity, and mortality. Ultrasonography is central to the proper diagnosis of the type of twinning. Ideally, ultrasonography is performed before 14 weeks of gestation to determine chorionicity and amnionicity. Correct identification of the chorionicity in a twin pregnancy facilitates proper counseling and management of the gestation, including ultrasonography follow-up. Herein, the different types of twinning are reviewed, together with the implications for ultrasonography monitoring of each specific type of twin gestation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Smith
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Marjorie C Treadwell
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Deborah R Berman
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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Chughtai AA, Wang AY, Hilder L, Li Z, Lui K, Farquhar C, Sullivan EA. Gestational age-specific perinatal mortality rates for assisted reproductive technology (ART) and other births. Hum Reprod 2017; 33:320-327. [DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dex340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2017] [Accepted: 10/21/2017] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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17
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Gou C, Li M, Zhang X, Liu X, Huang X, Zhou Y, Fang Q. Placental characteristics in monochorionic twins with selective intrauterine growth restriction assessed by gradient angiography and three-dimensional reconstruction. J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med 2017; 30:2590-2595. [DOI: 10.1080/14767058.2016.1256995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Chenyu Gou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fetal Medicine Center
| | | | | | - Xiangzhen Liu
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xuan Huang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fetal Medicine Center
| | - Yi Zhou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fetal Medicine Center
| | - Qun Fang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fetal Medicine Center
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19
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Abstract
Monoamniotic twins comprise a rare but important subset of twins at risk of unique and serious complications, placing them at the highest risk of perinatal mortality of all twin gestations. In addition to risks faced by all twins (prematurity, selective growth restriction), all monochorionic twins (twin-twin transfusion syndrome), and all monozygotic twins (congenital anomalies), monoamniotic twins face the unique risk of cord entanglement. Accordingly, early diagnosis, screening for fetal anomalies, surveillance for twin-twin transfusion syndrome, decisions related to monitoring after viability, and timing and route of delivery are all critical. Herein, we present recommendations for optimal management.
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The Placenta in Twin-to-Twin Transfusion Syndrome and Twin Anemia Polycythemia Sequence. Twin Res Hum Genet 2016; 19:184-90. [PMID: 27098457 DOI: 10.1017/thg.2016.29] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS) and twin anemia polycythemia sequence (TAPS) are complications unique to monochorionic twin pregnancies and their shared circulation. Both are the result of the transfusion imbalance in the intertwin circulation. TTTS is characterized by an amniotic fluid discordance, whereas in TAPS, there is a severe discordance in hemoglobin levels. The article gives an overview of the typical features of TTTS and TAPS placentas.
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Hubinont C, Lewi L, Bernard P, Marbaix E, Debiève F, Jauniaux E. Anomalies of the placenta and umbilical cord in twin gestations. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2015; 213:S91-S102. [PMID: 26428508 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2015.06.054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2015] [Revised: 06/24/2015] [Accepted: 06/25/2015] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The frequency of twin gestations has increased over the last few decades, mainly due to maternal age at childbearing, and the use of assisted reproductive technologies. Twins are at higher risk of aneuploidy, structural anomalies, and placental abnormalities. Some of the placental and umbilical cord abnormalities found in twin gestations are nonspecific and can be found in singleton gestations (ie, placenta previa, placental abruption, single umbilical artery, velamentous cord insertion, vasa previa, etc). However, other anomalies are unique to twin gestations, and are mainly associated with monochorionic twins-these include intraplacental anastomosis and cord entanglement. Most of these conditions can be diagnosed with ultrasound. An accurate and early diagnosis is important in the management of twin gestations. Determination of chorionicity, amnionicity, and the identification of placental anomalies are key issues for the adequate management of twin pregnancies. Pathologic placental examination after delivery can help in assessing the presence of placental and umbilical cord abnormalities, as well as providing information about chorionicity and gaining insight into the potential mechanisms of disease affecting twin gestations.
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22
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Zhao D, Cambiaso O, Otaño L, Lewi L, Deprest J, Sun L, Duan T, Oepkes D, Shapiro S, De Paepe M, Lopriore E. Veno–venous anastomoses in twin–twin transfusion syndrome: A multicenter study. Placenta 2015; 36:911-4. [DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2015.05.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2015] [Revised: 05/15/2015] [Accepted: 05/19/2015] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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23
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van Gemert MJ, van den Wijngaard JP, Vandenbussche FP. Twin reversed arterial perfusion sequence is more common than generally accepted. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2015; 103:641-3. [DOI: 10.1002/bdra.23405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2015] [Revised: 06/02/2015] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Martin J.C. van Gemert
- Department of Biomedical Engineering & Physics; Academic Medical Center; Amsterdam The Netherlands
| | - Jeroen P.H.M. van den Wijngaard
- Department of Biomedical Engineering & Physics; Academic Medical Center; Amsterdam The Netherlands
- Department of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine; Leiden University Medical Center; Leiden The Netherlands
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Juan Luis Leiva B, Hernán Muñoz S, Gustavo Rencoret P, Andrés Pons G. Cirugía fetal. REVISTA MÉDICA CLÍNICA LAS CONDES 2014. [DOI: 10.1016/s0716-8640(14)70646-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
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25
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Zhao D, de Villiers SF, Oepkes D, Lopriore E. Monochorionic twin placentas: Injection technique and analysis. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014. [DOI: 10.1016/j.diapre.2013.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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26
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Peeters SH, Devlieger R, Middeldorp JM, DeKoninck P, Deprest J, Lopriore E, Lewi L, Klumper FJ, Kontopoulos E, Quintero R, Oepkes D. Fetal surgery in complicated monoamniotic pregnancies: case series and systematic review of the literature. Prenat Diagn 2014; 34:586-91. [DOI: 10.1002/pd.4353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2014] [Revised: 02/28/2014] [Accepted: 02/28/2014] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Roland Devlieger
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology; University hospitals of KU Leuven; Leuven Belgium
| | | | - Philip DeKoninck
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology; University hospitals of KU Leuven; Leuven Belgium
| | - Jan Deprest
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology; University hospitals of KU Leuven; Leuven Belgium
| | - Enrico Lopriore
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology; Leiden University Medical Center; Leiden The Netherlands
| | - Liesbeth Lewi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology; University hospitals of KU Leuven; Leuven Belgium
| | - Frans J. Klumper
- Department of Obstetrics; Leiden University Medical Center; Leiden The Netherlands
| | | | - Ruben Quintero
- Jackson Fetal Therapy Institute; Jackson Memorial Hospital; Miami FL USA
| | - Dick Oepkes
- Department of Obstetrics; Leiden University Medical Center; Leiden The Netherlands
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Costa-Castro T, De Villiers S, Montenegro N, Severo M, Oepkes D, Matias A, Lopriore E. Velamentous cord insertion in monochorionic twins with or without twin–twin transfusion syndrome: Does it matter? Placenta 2013; 34:1053-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2013.08.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2013] [Revised: 08/09/2013] [Accepted: 08/13/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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28
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Emery SP, Canavan TP, Young OM, Hill LM. Longitudinal assessment of amniotic fluid volume in monoamniotic twin gestations. Prenat Diagn 2013; 33:1253-5. [PMID: 24114883 DOI: 10.1002/pd.4241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2013] [Revised: 09/13/2013] [Accepted: 09/17/2013] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study is to describe normal amniotic fluid volume through gestation in a cohort of normal monoamniotic (MA) twins. METHOD Our ultrasound database was queried for MA twin gestations from 2004 to 2011. Monochorionic twin pregnancies mimicking MA gestations, such as twin-twin transfusion syndrome, were excluded. Complicated MA gestations and higher-order multifetal gestations involving an MA pair were excluded. Thirty subjects were followed with serial amniotic fluid index (AFI) measurements from 15 to 32 weeks gestation. Using each AFI measurement as a unique data point, a quadratic regression model and a multi-level growth model were developed against gestational age (GA), providing a predicted AFI at each completed week, with a 95% confidence interval. RESULTS The quadratic regression least squares and multi-level growth models yielded the same curve comparing the AFI to the GA. Figure 1 depicts the model with the 95% confidence interval for normal amniotic fluid volume by GA for normal MA twins. Table 2 shows the 5th, 50th, and 95th percentiles for AFI by week from 15 to 32 weeks. CONCLUSION We have generated normative data for amniotic fluid volume across gestation in uncomplicated MA twins. This can be used as a reference when managing MA pregnancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen P Emery
- Division of Ultrasound, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Magee Womens Hospital of the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA
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De Paepe ME, Luks FI. What-and why-the pathologist should know about twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome. Pediatr Dev Pathol 2013; 16:237-51. [PMID: 23617829 DOI: 10.2350/13-03-1315-misc.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Approximately 20% of all twin pregnancies are monochorionic. Between 9% and 15% of all monochorionic twin gestations are complicated by severe chronic twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS), characterized by a gradual shift of blood volume from the donor twin to the recipient twin through placental vascular connections [1 - 3] . The prognosis of severe, untreated chronic TTTS diagnosed in midtrimester fetuses is extremely poor, with mortality rates exceeding 70% [4] . Since publication of the results of the Eurofoetus trial in 2004, laser photocoagulation of the intertwin anastomoses has become accepted as the optimal first-line therapy for severe TTTS diagnosed before 26 weeks of gestation. While laser treatment of vascular communications was initially limited to selected fetal treatment centers, its increasingly widespread use has resulted in the exposure of more pathologists, even in less specialized institutions, to laser-treated placentas. Furthermore, the surge in laser coagulation has revived the general medical, scientific, and public interest in the placental and choriovascular findings in monochorionic twin placentas. The pathologist's understanding of the pathophysiology of TTTS and of TTTS-associated placental pathology, including the findings related to laser ablation of the anastomoses, can be of great benefit to the involved obstetric/neonatal/surgical team and, ultimately, to the patients. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge of the placental contributions to TTTS and other complications of monochorionic twinning and describe the strengths and limitations of placental examination in these settings. It is our expectation that overviews such as this may serve as a template to generate consensus guidelines for standardized and evidence-based pathologic evaluation of monochorionic twin placentas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monique E De Paepe
- Department of Pathology, Women and Infants Hospital, Providence, RI, USA.
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Diehl W, Glosemeyer P, Tavares De Sousa M, Hollwitz B, Ortmeyer G, Hecher K. Twin anemia-polycythemia sequence in a case of monoamniotic twins. ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY OF ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY 2013; 42:108-111. [PMID: 23361996 DOI: 10.1002/uog.12418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/07/2013] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Twin anemia-polycythemia sequence (TAPS) complicates up to 6% of monochorionic diamniotic twin pregnancies, typically in the late second or third trimester. The presence of only a few and very small arteriovenous vascular anastomoses characterizes the underlying angioarchitecture at the chorionic plate in cases of TAPS. In monoamniotic twins, large vascular anastomoses can usually be seen at the placental vascular equator, and therefore one would not expect the development of TAPS in monoamniotic twins. We report a case of TAPS in a monoamniotic pregnancy at 26 + 5 weeks' gestation which responded favorably to fetoscopic laser coagulation of the small placental anastomoses, resolving severe anemia in one twin and polycythemia in the other. The pregnancy continued until 32 + 5 weeks, when worsening cord entanglement with increased resistance and the development of postsystolic notches in the umbilical artery of one twin prompted delivery by Cesarean section. There was only a moderate difference in neonatal hemoglobin concentrations, with the former polycythemic twin needing a single partial volume exchange transfusion. The postnatal course of the neonates was uneventful, according to their gestational age at birth. To our knowledge this is the first case report describing successful laser therapy for TAPS in monoamniotic twins.
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Affiliation(s)
- W Diehl
- University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Department of Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine, Hamburg, Germany.
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Al Riyami N, Al-Rusheidi A, Al-Khabori M. Perinatal outcome of monochorionic in comparison to dichorionic
twin pregnancies. Oman Med J 2013; 28:173-7. [PMID: 23772282 DOI: 10.5001/omj.2013.49] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2013] [Accepted: 03/27/2013] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study is to compare the neonatal outcomes of monochorionic and dichorionic twin pregnancies. METHODS A retrospective cohort study involving 51 twin pregnancies followed and delivered at Sultan Qaboos University Hospital was conducted between January 2006 and December 2011. RESULT Thirty six (71%) pregnancies were dichorionic diamniotic (DCDA), 14 (27%) were monochorionic diamniotic (MCDA), and one (2%) was monochorionic monoamniotic (MCMA). The antepartum complications noted in the 15 monochorionic twins were discordant fetal growth in 2 (14%) cases, low birth weight in 11 (73%) babies, pre-eclampsia in three mothers (21%) and twin to twin transfusion syndrome in four (29%) cases. Fetal respiratory distress affected eight (57%) of the pregnancies. Six (40%) twin sets were delivered before 30 weeks, 4 (27%) sets at 31 to 32 weeks, 2 (13%) sets at 34-35 weeks, 2 (13%) sets at 36-37 weeks, and 1 (7%) at 37-38 weeks. Fifteen mothers delivered 16 live infants, 9 (30%) stillbirths and 5 (17%) died after birth. Most neonatal deaths were due to neonatal sepsis and pulmonary hypoplasia. Dichorioinic twins, (DC) morbidity was seen in 11% and 40% for monochoroinic twins (MC). Mortality rate was 17% for DC and 47% for MC twins. CONCLUSIONS Perinatal morbidity and mortality remain high among monochorionic twins. This is likely due to frequent twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome, prematurity, fetal growth restriction and intrauterine fetal death. Improved fetal and neonatal management may result in improved outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nihal Al Riyami
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sultan Qaboos University Hospital, Al Khoud, Sultanate of Oman
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Lewi L, Deprest J, Hecher K. The vascular anastomoses in monochorionic twin pregnancies and their clinical consequences. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2013; 208:19-30. [PMID: 23103301 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2012.09.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 159] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2012] [Revised: 09/10/2012] [Accepted: 09/21/2012] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Monochorionic twin pregnancies are at increased risk of adverse outcome because of the vascular anastomoses that connect the 2 fetal circulation systems. The shared circulation is responsible for some unique complications in monochorionic twins, such as the twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome, the twin anemia polycythemia sequence, the twin reversed arterial perfusion sequence, and monoamniotic twinning. Another consequence of the shared circulation is that the well-being of one twin critically depends on that of the other. In this review, we will describe the technique of placental injection. Further, we will discuss the role of the vascular anastomoses in each of the complications described above and provide an update on their management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiran Dias
- Senior Registrar in Obstetrics and Gynaecology/Clinical Fellow in Fetal Medicine; Fetal Medicine Unit; Academic Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology; St George's University of London; Cranmer Terrace; London; SW17 0RE; UK
| | - Basky Thilaganathan
- Professor of Fetal Medicine; Fetal Medicine Unit; St George's University of London; London; UK
| | - Amar Bhide
- Consultant in Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine; Fetal Medicine Unit; St George's University of London; London; UK
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de Villiers S, Slaghekke F, Middeldorp J, Klumper F, Walther F, Oepkes D, Lopriore E. Arterio-arterial vascular anastomoses in monochorionic twin placentas with and without twin anemia-polycythemia sequence. Placenta 2012; 33:227-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2012.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2011] [Revised: 01/04/2012] [Accepted: 01/05/2012] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
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Dias T, Contro E, Thilaganathan B, Khan H, Zanardini C, Mahsud-Dornan S, Bhide A. Pregnancy Outcome of Monochorionic Twins: Does Amnionicity Matter? Twin Res Hum Genet 2012; 14:586-92. [DOI: 10.1375/twin.14.6.586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Objective: To compare the fetal loss rate of monochorionic (MC) twin pregnancies according to their amnionicity. Methods: A retrospective review of all MC pregnancy outcomes in a tertiary centre. Pregnancy outcomes were compared for monochorionic monoamniotic (MCMA) versus monochorionic diamniotic (MCDA) pregnancies. Results: 29 MCMA and 117 MCDA twin pregnancies were identified. The overall fetal loss rate was significantly higher in MCMA (23/52, 44.2%) compared to MCDA pregnancies (28/233, 12%, Chi squared = 30.03, p < .001). Kaplan-Meier analysis showed that fetal survival rate in MCDA twins were significantly higher than in MCMA twins (Log-rank Chi-squared = 27.9, p < .0005). Early pregnancy ultrasound identified the causes for these fetal losses in some MCMA twins. After exclusion of identifiable causes, the difference in fetal survival was not significant in the two groups (Log-rank chi-squared = 0.373, p = .54). Conclusion: The loss rate for MCMA twins is high and occurs mainly due to discordant congenital abnormality, conjoint twins or twin reversed arterial perfusion (TRAP) sequence. Although the fetal loss rate in MCDA is lower than in MCMA pregnancies, the majority of fetal loss in MCDA pregnancies cannot be predicted at the first scan at presentation. The data of this study questions the widespread policy of a difference in the scheduling of elective delivery for MCMA and MCDA twins.
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Lopriore E, Slaghekke F, Middeldorp JM, Klumper FJ, van Lith JM, Walther FJ, Oepkes D. Accurate and simple evaluation of vascular anastomoses in monochorionic placenta using colored dye. J Vis Exp 2011:e3208. [PMID: 21912373 PMCID: PMC3230184 DOI: 10.3791/3208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The presence of placental vascular anastomoses is a conditio sine qua non for the development of twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS) and twin anemia polycythemia sequence (TAPS)(1,2). Injection studies of twin placentas have shown that such anastomoses are almost invariably present in monochorionic twins and extremely rare in dichorionic twins(1). Three types of anastomoses have been documented: from artery to artery, from vein to vein and from artery to vein. Arterio-venous (AV) anastomoses are unidirectional and are referred to as "deep" anastomoses since they proceed through a shared placental cotyledon, whereas arterio-arterial (AA) and veno-venous (VV) anastomoses are bi-directional and are referred to as "superficial" since they lie on the chorionic plate. Both TTTS and TAPS are caused by net imbalance of blood flow between the twins due to AV anastomoses. Blood from one twin (the donor) is pumped through an artery into the shared placental cotyledon and then drained through a vein into the circulation of the other twin (the recipient). Unless blood is pumped back from the recipient to the donor through oppositely directed deep AV anastomoses or through superficial anastomoses, an imbalance of blood volumes occurs, gradually leading to the development of TTTS or TAPS. The presence of an AA anastomosis has been shown to protect against the development of TTTS and TAPS by compensating for the circulatory imbalance caused by the uni-directional AV anastomoses(1,2). Injection of monochorionic placentas soon after birth is a useful mean to understand the etiology of various (hematological) complications in monochorionic twins and is a required test to reach the diagnosis of TAPS(2). In addition, injection of TTTS placentas treated with fetoscopic laser surgery allows identification of possible residual anastomoses(3-5). This additional information is of paramount importance for all perinatologists involved in the management and care of monochorionic twins with TTTS or TAPS. Several placental injection techniques are currently being used. We provide a simple protocol to accurately evaluate the presence of (residual) vascular anastomoses using colored dye injection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enrico Lopriore
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, Leiden University Medical Center.
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Incidence and clinicopathologic correlation of fetal vessel thrombosis in mono- and dichorionic twin placentas. J Perinatol 2010; 30:660-4. [PMID: 20200539 DOI: 10.1038/jp.2010.19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the incidence of fetal vessel thrombosis in monochorionic-diamniotic and dichorionic-diamniotic twin placentas, and its association with intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR), hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, twin-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS), fetal vascular anastomoses, chorangiosis, and chorioamnionitis. STUDY DESIGN Histologic slides from 80 pairs of monochorionic and 80 pairs of dichorionic twin placentas were reviewed for evidence of fetal vessel thrombosis (≥5 adjacent avascular terminal villi with upstream intravascular fibrin thrombi). Associations with clinical and other pathologic variables were analyzed by χ(2) tests. RESULT Thrombosis occurred in 7.5% of monochorionic and 3.1% of dichorionic twin placentas (P=0.090). It was associated with IUGR among the monochorionic twins (P=<0.0001) and with hypertensive disorders of pregnancy among the dichorionic twins (P=0.018). Vascular anastomoses, TTTS, chorangiosis, and chorioamnionitis were not associated with fetal vessel thrombosis. CONCLUSION Fetal vessel thrombosis was identified more frequently in monochorionic twins, but this difference was not statistically significant. It is associated with IUGR in monochorionic twins, but not with TTTS or fetal vascular anastomoses at the chorionic surface.
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Minimally invasive fetoscopic interventions: an overview in 2010. Surg Endosc 2010; 24:2056-67. [DOI: 10.1007/s00464-010-0879-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2009] [Accepted: 08/14/2009] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Lewi L. Cord entanglement in monoamniotic twins: does it really matter? ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY OF ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY 2010; 35:139-141. [PMID: 20101627 DOI: 10.1002/uog.7553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- L Lewi
- Department of Obstetrics-Gynecology, University Hospitals Gasthuisberg, Herestraat 49, B-3000 Leuven, Belgium
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van Meir H, Slaghekke F, Lopriore E, van Wijngaarden W. Arterio-Arterial Anastomoses do not Prevent the Development of Twin Anemia-Polycythemia Sequence. Placenta 2010; 31:163-5. [DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2009.11.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2009] [Revised: 11/19/2009] [Accepted: 11/19/2009] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Winer N, Caroit Y, Le Vaillant C, Philippe HJ. [Monoamniotic twins: diagnosis and management]. J Gynecol Obstet Hum Reprod 2009; 38:S85-S89. [PMID: 20141933 DOI: 10.1016/s0368-2315(09)73564-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Monoamniotic twin pregnancies are necessarily monochorionic and are defined by the development of two fetuses in a single amniotic cavity. This pregnancy is the result of a division of the egg between the 8th and 13th day after fertilization. The diagnosis can and should be performed during the first trimester of pregnancy. Apart from the small risk of fetal transfusion syndrome, the specificities of these pregnancies are linked to greater risk of perinatal mortality, malformations, prematurity and the persistent risk of entanglement cords until birth. Intensified obstetrical monitoring eventually requiring hospitalization followed by a premature birth around 34 SA is recommended to improve perinatal outcomes with a reduction in prenatal mortality. Reorientation toward a neonatal Level III, the proposal of a systematic course of corticosteroids and elective delivery once lung maturation is achieved are recommended. There is not enough argument to recommend specific delivery mode, although cesarean section is performed by most authors to reduce the funicular risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Winer
- CHU Nantes, Service de gynécologie-obstétrique, 38, boulevard Jean Monnet, 44093 Nantes cedex, France.
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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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Hack KEA, van Gemert MJC, Lopriore E, Schaap AHP, Eggink AJ, Elias SG, van den Wijngaard JPHM, Vandenbussche FPHA, Derks JB, Visser GHA, Nikkels PGJ. Placental characteristics of monoamniotic twin pregnancies in relation to perinatal outcome. Placenta 2008; 30:62-5. [PMID: 19010539 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2008.09.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2008] [Revised: 09/09/2008] [Accepted: 09/29/2008] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To study placental characteristics in relation to perinatal outcome in 55 pairs of monochorionic monoamniotic (MA) twins. METHODS Between January 1998 and May 2008 55 pairs of MA twins were delivered in 4 tertiary care centers and analysed for mortality, birth weight discordancy and twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS) in relation to type of anastomoses, type and distance between cord insertions and placental sharing. Five acardiac twins, 2 conjoined twins, 4 higher order multiples and one early termination of pregnancy were excluded, leaving 43 MA placentas for analysis. Of these 43, one placenta could not be analysed for placental vascular anastomoses due to severe maceration after single intra-uterine demise leaving 42 placentas for analysis of anastomoses. RESULTS Arterio-arterial (AA), venovenous (VV) and arteriovenous (AV) anastomoses were detected in 98%, 43% and 91% of MA placentas, respectively. Velamentous cord insertion was found in 4% of cases. Small distance between both umbilical cord insertions (<5 cm) was present in 53% of MA placentas. Overall perinatal loss rate was 22% (19/86). We found no association between mortality and type of anastomoses, type and distance between cord insertions and placental sharing. The incidence of TTTS was low (2%) and occurred in the only pregnancy with absent AA-anastomoses. CONCLUSION Perinatal mortality in MA twins was not related to placental vascular anatomy. The almost ubiquitous presence of compensating AA-anastomoses in MA placentas appears to prevent occurrence of TTTS.
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Affiliation(s)
- K E A Hack
- Department of Obstetrics, Wilhelmina Children's Hospital, and Department of Pathology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Lundlaan 6, 3584 EA Utrecht, The Netherlands.
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Lopriore E, Oepkes D. Fetal and neonatal haematological complications in monochorionic twins. Semin Fetal Neonatal Med 2008; 13:231-8. [PMID: 18356125 DOI: 10.1016/j.siny.2008.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Placental vascular anastomoses are almost invariably present in monochorionic (MC) placentas. These anastomoses are the essential anatomical substrate for the development of several haematological complications in MC twins, in particular twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS). Several forms of TTTS have been described, including chronic TTTS, acute perimortem TTTS, twin anaemia-polycythaemia sequence, acute perinatal TTTS and twin reversed arterial perfusion sequence. A significant evolution in prenatal care strategies and management options for patients with TTTS has occurred during the last decade. In chronic TTTS, endoscopic laser ablation of communicating placental vessels has led to an increase in survival rates. This review analyzes the possible pathophysiologic mechanisms involved, discusses the latest findings in diagnosis, therapy and prognosis, and focuses on fetal and neonatal haematologic complications associated with the various forms of TTTS.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Lopriore
- Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, The Netherlands.
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van den Wijngaard JPHM, Umur A, Ross MG, van Gemert MJC. Twin–twin transfusion syndrome: mathematical modelling. Prenat Diagn 2008; 28:280-91. [DOI: 10.1002/pd.1944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
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Lemerle S, Le Vaillant C, Dubreil C, Boog G. Mise en évidence des anastomoses vasculaires par la vélocimétrie doppler dans les grossesses gémellaires monochoriales. Revue de la littérature à propos de trois cas. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2007; 36:777-85. [PMID: 17616263 DOI: 10.1016/j.jgyn.2007.05.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2006] [Revised: 02/14/2007] [Accepted: 05/18/2007] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Three cases of intermittent absent end-diastolic and reversed end-diastolic flow velocity (A/REDV) are reported in the proximal umbilical artery of the growth-retarded twin in monochorionic twin pregnancies. This typical doppler velocimetric pattern has been related to arterio-arterial anastomoses in two cases of intra-uterine growth retardation and in one case of twin-twin transfusion syndrome. According to the literature, superficial arterio-arterial anastomoses may be detected by doppler colour velocimetry in 75 to 85% of cases, while identification of arteriovenous connections is more difficult to be documented in vivo (50% of cases in experienced hands). The role of superficial vascular anastomoses, either arterio-arterial or venovenous, and that of deep arteriovenous communications is now well documented in the main complications of monochorionic pregnancies, particularly for twin-twin transfusion syndrome, intrauterine growth retardation, intrauterine fetal death and acardiac twins.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Lemerle
- Service de gynécologie-obstétrique, hôpital Mère-Enfant, 38, boulevard Jean-Monnet, 44035 Nantes cedex 01, France
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Walker SP, Cole SA, Edwards AG. Twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome: Is the future getting brighter? Aust N Z J Obstet Gynaecol 2007; 47:158-68. [PMID: 17550480 DOI: 10.1111/j.1479-828x.2007.00712.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS) continues to pose a major challenge in the area of fetal therapy. Untreated, the mortality and morbidity are extremely high, and the fact that there are two structurally normal fetuses at risk makes the case for effective in utero therapy even more compelling. Advances in therapeutic procedures, in particular the development of selective laser photocoagulation of intertwin vascular anastomoses, have improved outcomes, both in terms of survival and survival free of disability. This review examines the pathophysiology, diagnosis, surveillance, contemporary therapies, expected outcomes and ongoing challenges in TTTS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan P Walker
- Mercy Hospital for Women, University of Melbourne, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia.
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Benders MJNL, Groenendaal F, Uiterwaal CSPM, Nikkels PGJ, Bruinse HW, Nievelstein RAJ, de Vries LS. Maternal and infant characteristics associated with perinatal arterial stroke in the preterm infant. Stroke 2007; 38:1759-65. [PMID: 17495219 DOI: 10.1161/strokeaha.106.479311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Most perinatal arterial stroke (PAS) studies that investigated infant characteristics have excluded preterm infants from the study population. We sought to analyze the imaging findings and antenatal and perinatal risk factors in preterm infants with PAS. METHODS This was a hospital-based, case-control study of preterm infants. Case infants were confirmed by reviewing brain imaging scans and medical records (n=31). Three controls per case were individually matched with case infants from the study population. RESULTS Gestational age ranged between 27 and 36 weeks, and birth weight ranged between 580 and 3180 g. PAS was more common on the left side (61%), and 7% had bilateral PAS. The majority of strokes involved the middle cerebral artery distribution. Involvement of 1 or more lenticulostriate branches was most common among infants with a gestational age of 28 to 32 weeks, but main branch involvement was seen only in those with a gestational age of >32 weeks. Twin-to-twin-transfusion syndrome, fetal heart rate abnormality, and hypoglycemia were identified as independent risk factors for PAS. CONCLUSIONS Preterm PAS is associated with prenatal, perinatal, and postpartum risk factors. We were unable to identify any maternal risk factors. Involvement of the different branches of the middle cerebral artery changed with an increase in gestational age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manon J N L Benders
- Department of Neonatology, Wilhelmina Children's Hospital, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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