[Fetoscopic laser coagulation in 100 consecutive monochorionic pregnancies with severe twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome]

J Gynecol Obstet Biol Reprod (Paris). 2011 Sep;40(5):444-51. doi: 10.1016/j.jgyn.2011.04.001. Epub 2011 May 28.
[Article in French]

Abstract

Objectives: To report pre- and post-surgical datas of large series of severe twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS) managed with laser ablation surgery in our centre, to evaluate the incidence of complications, perinatal outcome and to compare with other cohorts.

Patients and methods: Observational study of 100 cases of TTTS consecutively treated with fetoscopic laser coagulation between January 2004 and April 2010 in CMCO-SIHCUS of Schiltigheim.

Results: There are nine stage I, 49 stage II, 38 stage III and four stage 4. Median gestation at time of laser is 20.6 weeks (14-29) whereas median gestation at delivery is 32.6 weeks (16.3-39). Overall perinatal survival rate is 68.5% (137 children over 200). Eighty-five percent have one or more surviving twins. The survival rate is the same for donors and for recipients. Preterm premature rupture of the membranes are observed in 17% of cases and the median gestational age for this complication is 30 weeks (20-34). Cerebral abnormalities are present in 7% of newborns.

Conclusion: Our results for the management of severe TTTS are comparable to the other reported series. There are still many questions remaining concerning the optimal management of TTTS.

Publication types

  • English Abstract

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Brain / abnormalities
  • Cohort Studies
  • Female
  • Fetal Membranes, Premature Rupture / epidemiology
  • Fetofetal Transfusion / epidemiology
  • Fetofetal Transfusion / surgery*
  • Fetoscopy / methods*
  • Humans
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Laser Coagulation / methods*
  • Pregnancy
  • Pregnancy Complications, Hematologic / surgery
  • Pregnancy Outcome
  • Prospective Studies
  • Severity of Illness Index
  • Young Adult