Fetoscopic laser ablation for twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS)
Twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS) occurs in ten to 15 percent of identical twin fetuses who share the same placenta (monochorionic twins). An uneven flow of blood between the two babies through the common placenta causes one twin (the recipient) to get too much blood while the other twin (the donor) receives too little.
TTTS puts both fetuses at risk. In fact, left untreated, the mortality rate for both twins is nearly 90 percent.
The progression of TTTS is based on the Quintero Staging System:
Through its collaboration with Pediatric Surgical Associates, Minnesota Perinatal Physicians offers fetoscopic laser ablation for the treatment of TTTS.
During fetoscopic laser ablation, a tiny scope is inserted through the uterus to find the blood vessels connecting the two babies. A laser is then used to coagulate the shared vessels, thus allowing each baby its own circulation. This procedure increases the survival rate of one baby to 75 to 90 percent and both babies to 35 to 40 percent.
When expectant parents learn their babies have been diagnosed with twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome, it can be overwhelming to understand all of the elements of care. For this reason, a fetal therapy nurse will provide individualized care coordination and support from diagnosis to delivery and beyond.
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