[Twin to twin transfusion syndrome]

Area of Science:

• Perinatology
• Maternal-Fetal Medicine
• Reproductive Medicine

Background:

• Multiple pregnancy incidence has risen significantly (1.7x from 1980-1994).
• Monochorionic diamniotic twins constitute 25% of all twins.
• Monochorionic twins exhibit 5x greater perinatal mortality and 8x greater morbidity compared to dichorionic twins.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe twin-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS).
• To review current literature on TTTS.
• To highlight the need for comparative treatment studies.

Main Methods:

• Literature review on twin-twin transfusion syndrome.
• Analysis of perinatal mortality and morbidity data for monochorionic twins.
• Discussion of current treatment options: amniocentesis and lasercoagulation.

Main Results:

• Twin-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS) affects 10-30% of monochorionic twins.
• Increased morbidity in monochorionic twins is linked to prematurity, cerebral lesions, and congenital malformations.
• Current treatments for TTTS include amniocentesis and lasercoagulation of placental anastomoses.

Conclusions:

• Twin-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS) is a significant contributor to adverse outcomes in monochorionic twins.
• Further research is needed to establish the optimal treatment strategy for TTTS.
• A multinational randomized study is essential to compare amniocentesis and lasercoagulation effectiveness.