Microwave ablation for twin-reversed arterial perfusion sequence

Area of Science:

• Maternal-fetal medicine
• Interventional radiology

Background:

• Twin-reversed arterial perfusion (TRAP) sequence is a rare complication of monochorionic twin gestations.
• It involves an acardiac twin receiving retrograde blood flow from a structurally normal pump twin through abnormal vascular connections.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report a case of TRAP sequence managed with ultrasound-guided percutaneous microwave ablation (MWA).
• To highlight the feasibility and clinical potential of MWA in managing TRAP sequence.

Main Methods:

• Ultrasound-guided percutaneous microwave ablation (MWA) was performed at 25 weeks of gestation.
• The procedure aimed to interrupt blood flow to the intra-abdominal umbilical cord vessels of the acardiac twin.

Main Results:

• Successful cessation of blood flow to the acardiac twin was achieved.
• The case demonstrates the effectiveness of MWA in managing TRAP sequence.

Conclusions:

• Microwave ablation (MWA) is a feasible and potentially effective treatment for TRAP sequence.
• MWA presents a viable alternative to conventional management strategies for this rare twin pregnancy complication.