Perinatal outcome of monochorionic twins with selective IUGR compared with uncomplicated monochorionic twins

Twin Res Hum Genet. 2011 Oct;14(5):457-62. doi: 10.1375/twin.14.5.457.

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the perinatal outcome of MC twins with selective IUGR (sIUGR).

Study design: A prospective study, which included three groups of MC twins: Group A, uncomplicated MC twin pregnancies (n = 91); group B, sIUGR with normal umbilical artery Doppler (n = 19); and group C, sIUGR with abnormal (absence or reversed EDV) umbilical artery Doppler (n = 18). The latter were routinely hospitalized in the high-risk ward under strict surveillance.

Results: Neonatal outcome of fetuses complicated with sIUGR and normal Doppler was similar to controls. Neonates born to pregnancies complicated by sIUGR and abnormal Doppler had significantly increased incidence of CNS findings, RDS, NEC, sepsis, and neonatal death compared to controls. Adverse outcome in this group was independently associated only with gestational age at birth.

Conclusion: The perinatal outcomes of MC twins complicated with sIUGR and normal Doppler are similar to uncomplicated MC pregnancies. MC twins with sIUGR and abnormal Doppler have reasonable outcomes, yet significantly more neonatal complications compared to non-complicated MC twins.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Chorion / abnormalities*
  • Cohort Studies
  • Diseases in Twins*
  • Female
  • Fetal Growth Retardation*
  • Gestational Age
  • Humans
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Pregnancy
  • Pregnancy Outcome
  • Pregnancy, Twin
  • Prospective Studies
  • Twins, Dizygotic
  • Twins, Monozygotic*
  • Umbilical Arteries / blood supply