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Fetal blood sampling in twin pregnancies
A Antsaklis1, G Daskalakis, A P Souka
1First Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Alexandra Maternity Hospital, University of Athens, Athens, Greece.
Summary
Fetal blood sampling in twin pregnancies has a higher risk of fetal loss compared to amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling. However, it is valuable for specific fetal conditions like hydrops and infection.
Area of Science:
- Maternal-Fetal Medicine
- Prenatal Diagnosis
- Genetics
Background:
- Twin pregnancies present unique challenges for prenatal diagnosis.
- Fetal blood sampling (FBS) is an invasive procedure used for genetic and other analyses.
- Assessing the safety and efficacy of FBS in twins is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the role and risks of fetal blood sampling in twin pregnancies.
- To compare FBS outcomes with those of amniocentesis and chorionic villus sampling.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 84 twin pregnancies undergoing FBS (1977-2000).
- Comparison of FBS outcomes with data from amniocentesis and chorionic villus sampling studies.
Main Results:
- The procedure-related fetal loss rate after FBS was 8.2%.
- Overall fetal loss rate was 13.6%, with miscarriage in 3.6% of cases.
- Higher rates of preterm delivery and perinatal mortality were observed compared to other methods.
Conclusions:
- Fetal blood sampling in twin pregnancies is associated with higher fetal risks than amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling.
- FBS remains a valuable tool for specific indications, including fetal hydrops and infections.
- Careful consideration of risks versus benefits is necessary when performing FBS in twin gestations.