Laser therapy for twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS)
G E Chalouhi1, M Essaoui, J Stirnemann
1National Referral Centre for the Management of Complicated Monochorionic Pregnancies, Department of Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine, Paris Descartes University, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Hôpital Necker-Enfants-Malades, 75015 Paris, France.
Abstract:
Monochorionic twins are subjected to specific complications which originate in either imbalance or abnormality of the single placenta serving two twins including twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome. The diagnosis is well established in overt clinical forms with the association of polyuric polyhydramnios and oliguric oligohydramnios. The best treatment of cases presenting before 26 weeks of gestion is fetoscopic laser ablation of the intertwin anastomoses on the chorionic plate. Although subjected to subtle variations, the core technique follows robust guidelines which could help understanding and acquiring the required skills and experience to perform this procedure. However appropriate and tailored hands-on training and appropriate perinatal set-up are critical not only for surgical management but also for the follow-up and management of related complications.
