Search

We have previously described a gestational age-independent sonographic parameter to assess fetal lung growth in the right lung (right quantitative lung index, or QLI-R). The purpose of this study was to develop a similar sonographic parameter to assess the growth of the left lung in the fetus, independent of gestational age, or QLI-L. A new index, the QLI-L was derived using published formulas for the head circumference (HC) and the area of the base of the left lung (LA), with the corresponding percentiles. Left lung growth can be expressed using the following formula: QLI − L = LA L ( HC 12 ) 2 . The 50th percentile of the QLI-L remained approximately constant at 1.0 for the GA between 16-32 weeks. A small left lung (<1st percentile) was defined as a QLI-L < 0.5. Fetal left lung growth can be adequately described independent of gestational age using the QLI-L. Further experience is needed to assess the clinical accuracy of the QLI-L in characterizing fetal left lung growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To quantify and assess potential risk factors for transplacental passage of fetal red blood cells (RBCs) into the maternal circulation (fetomaternal bleeding, FMB) after laser surgery for twin-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS).Study Design: A retrospective study of Rhesus-D negative patients that underwent laser surgery for TTTS. Patients with and without postoperative detectable fetal RBCs on Kleihauer-Betke (KB) testing were compared to determine risk factors for FMB. Patients were further sub-classified into those with a FMB < 20% and ≥20% of estimated fetoplacental blood volume.Results: Of 60 studied patients, 26/60 (43%) had a positive postoperative KB test. The median fetal:adult RBC ratio was 0.00125, estimated to be a FMB volume of 6.25 mL. There were 17/26 (65%) of patients with FMB < 20% and 9/26 (35%) patients with ≥20% of the fetoplacental blood volume. Stage III-Recipient and III-Recipient/Donor patients were more likely to have a positive KB test (14/21 [66.7%] vs 12/39 [30.8%], OR = 4.50 [1.27-16.54], P = 0.0162). No other risk factors for FMB were apparent.Conclusions: Fetomaternal bleed appears to be a common finding after laser surgery for TTTS. TTTS Stage, particularly stage III-Recipient and III-Recipient/Donor, appears to be a risk factor for FMB. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of advanced photochemical processes has experienced the emergence of a promising alternative for water disinfection, different from traditional methods. The applicability has primarily been investigated in drinking and wastewater; however, new challenges related to microbiological control in marine waters necessitate evaluating the applicability of this process in such water matrices. In this study, the efficacy of persulfate (PDS) activated with UV-light against E. faecalis has been tested on the bench scale. Firstly, optimization of the different PDS concentrations (1–10 mM) and exposure times (0–5 min) was performed in distilled water. 1 mM of PDS was selected as the best dosage within the range tested. Secondly, in order to evaluate the effects of different inorganic compounds usually found in natural waters, the efficiency of the UV/PDS system was tested in three different matrices: mineral water, saltwater, and marine saltwater. Finally, different bacteria were evaluated in consortium (E. coli + E. faecalis), suggesting the same inactivation level independently on the bacterial groups and structures. The results suggest that PDS is an attractive alternative to other photochemical processes currently in use for seawater treatment and this application deserved further research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Amniopatch is a proposed treatment of iatrogenic preterm premature rupture of membranes (iPPROM). We studied characteristics associated with successful amniopatch treatment of iPPROM after fetoscopic laser surgery for twin-twin transfusion syndrome.Methods: Patients with iPPROM within 15 days of laser surgery treated with an amniopatch were studied. Factors associated with amniopatch success (i.e. cessation of leakage with normalization of amniotic fluid volume) were tested univariately and in multivariate logistic regression models. Continuous variables are expressed as median (range).Results: Of 1124 patients undergoing laser surgery, 19 (1.7%) had iPPROM and subsequent amniopatch. Twelve (63.2%) were successful. Latency in days from iPPROM to delivery was greater in the successful group (114.0 [87.0-141.0]) versus (44.0 [3.9-88.0], p = 0.0005), which translated into greater gestational age (GA) (weeks) at delivery (35.1 [30.9-39.4] versus 28.1 [22.0-31.0], p = 0.0005). The 30-day survival of the affected recipient twin was improved (100% versus 57.1%, p = 0.0361). After multivariate testing, GA < 20 weeks at the time of the amniopatch placement was the only variable that remained associated with successful sealing of the membranes.Conclusions: Treatment of iPPROM via amniopatch was successful in almost two-thirds of cases and was associated with higher GA at delivery and improved perinatal survival. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: We examined placental weight characteristics associated with donor selective intrauterine growth restriction (SIUGR) among patients with twin-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS) who underwent laser surgery.Materials and Methods: Fresh placental specimens were studied. Pregnancies with higher-order multiples, fetal demise, or disrupted or nonsubmitted placental specimens were excluded. Placental characteristics prospectively collected included total placental weight, individual placental weight, and placental share. Data were compared between pregnancies with SIUGR (TTTS + SIUGR group) and those without SIUGR (TTTS-only group).Results: Of 369 consecutive patients who underwent laser surgery for TTTS, 155 (42%) met inclusion criteria: 91 with TTTS + SIUGR and 64 with TTTS-only. Compared to the TTTS-only group, patients in the TTTS + SIUGR group had a lower total placental weight (608 ± 163 vs. 687 ± 224 g, p = 0.012), with a lower donor individual placental weight (237 ± 91 vs. 291 ± 124 g, p = 0.002), but no apparent difference in the individual placental weight of recipient twins (371 ± 109 vs. 396 ± 133 g, p = 0.211). Donor placental share was smaller in those pregnancies affected by SIUGR (38.7 ± 9.6 vs. 42.3 ± 9.8%, p = 0.029).Discussion: TTTS patients with SIUGR had a lower total placental weight and a lower donor individual placental weight compared to those without SIUGR. These findings suggest that differences in donor individual placental weights for SIUGR gestations may not solely be related to differences in placental share. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Laser ablation of all placental vascular anastomoses is the optimal treatment for twin-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS). However, two important controversies are apparent in the literature: (a) a gap between concept and performance, and (b) controversy regarding whether all the anastomoses can be identified endoscopically and whether blind lasering of healthy placenta is justified. The purpose of this article is: (a) to address the potential source of the gap between concept and performance by analyzing the fundamental steps needed to successfully accomplish the surgery, and (b) to discuss the resulting competency benchmarks reported with the different surgical techniques.Materials and Methods: Laser surgery for TTTS can be broken down into two fundamental steps: (1) endoscopic identification of the placental vascular anastomoses, (2) laser ablation of the anastomoses. The two steps are not synonymous: (a) regarding the endoscopic identification of the anastomoses, the non-selective technique is based upon lasering all vessels crossing the dividing membrane, whether anastomotic or not. The selective technique identifies and lasers only placental vascular anastomoses. The Solomon technique is based on the theory that not all anastomoses are endoscopically visible and thus involves lasering healthy areas of the placenta between lasered anastomoses, (b) regarding the actual laser ablation of the anastomoses, successful completion of the surgery (i.e., lasering all the anastomoses) can be measured by the rate of persistent or reverse TTTS (PRTTTS) and how often a selective technique can be achieved. Articles representing the different techniques are discussed.Results: The non-selective technique is associated with the lowest double survival rate (35%), compared with 60-75% of the Solomon or the Quintero selective techniques. The Solomon technique is associated with a 20% rate of residual patent placental vascular anastomoses, compared to 3.5-5% for the selective technique (p < .05). Both the Solomon and the selective technique are associated with a 1% risk of PRTTTS. Adequate placental assessment is highest with the selective technique (99%) compared with the Solomon (80%) or the 'standard' (60%) techniques (p < .05). A surgical performance index is proposed.Conclusion: The Quintero selective technique was associated with the highest rate of successful ablation and lowest rate of PRTTTS. The Solomon technique represents a historical backward movement in the identification of placental vascular anastomoses and is associated with higher rate of residual patent vascular communications. The reported outcomes of the Quintero selective technique do not lend support to the existence of invisible anastomoses or justify lasering healthy placental tissue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Selective reduction (SR) via intravascular potassium chloride (KCl) injection is contraindicated in monochorionic twins due to the presence of placental vascular communications, which may serve as a conduit for inter-twin passage of KCl or allow exsanguination of the living twin into the demised twin. After successful selective laser photocoagulation of communicating vessels (SLPCV) for twin-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS), the twins' circulatory systems are rendered independent. Theoretically, intravascular KCl injection into one twin after successful SLPCV should not result in passage of the feticidal agent nor cause hemodynamic alterations in the co-twin. We describe 3 cases of 1,069 patients (0.3%) that underwent SLPCV for TTTS between 2003 and 2013 and subsequent SR. SLPCV was successfully completed at 180, 226, and 230 weeks' gestational age for Quintero stages III, IV, and III TTTS, respectively. SR via intravascular KCl injection was later performed at maternal request due to the risk of neurological compromise in one twin at 226, 254, and 236 weeks' gestational age. All co-twins survived after SR, and no neurological sequelae were suspected after birth. Further study is necessary before SR can be routinely considered after laser surgery for TTTS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To evaluate the impact of selective intrauterine growth restriction (SIUGR) on monochorionic multiples treated with selective laser photocoagulation of communicating vessels (SLPCVs) for twin-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS). Methods: Perinatal survival was compared among TTTS patients with and without SIUGR. The TTTS + SIUGR group was defined as TTTS patients with donor twin weight <10th percentile. Multivariable logistic regression analyses identified factors associated with 30-day survival. Results: Of 369 patients, 65% (N = 241) had TTTS + SIUGR. Thirty-day donor twin survival for the TTTS-only group was 84% versus 75% in the TTTS + SIUGR group (p = 0.0348). Stage III donor involved (stage III donor, donor/recipient) TTTS + SIUGR patients (N = 110) had 66% 30-day donor survival. Multivariable logistic regression demonstrated that the TTTS-only group was twice as likely to achieve donor survival compared to the TTTS + SIUGR group (OR 2.01, 95% CI 1.11–3.66,p = 0.0214). In the TTTS + SIUGR group, patients not classified as stage III donor-involved were twice as likely to achieve donor survival as stage III donor-involved patients (OR 2.02, 95% CI 1.10–3.71,p = 0.0226). Conclusions: SIUGR, present in two-thirds of TTTS patients, was a risk factor for decreased donor survival. Patients with donor SIUGR and umbilical artery persistent or reversed end-diastolic flow (Quintero Stage III Donor-involved) were especially at risk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Treatment of twin-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS) via the sequential selective laser photocoagulation of communicating vessels (SQLPCV) technique involves lasering the arteriovenous communications from the donor twin to the recipient twin first, followed by the arteriovenous communications from the recipient twin to the donor. Occluding the vascular communications in this particular order may result in transient intraoperative net transfusion to the donor twin and facilitate hemodynamic equilibrium, particularly to the volume depleted donor twin. Preliminary evidence suggests that the SQLPCV technique may result in improved perinatal outcomes compared with the standard selective (SLPCV) laser surgical approach. In this article, we describe the pathophysiological basis for this surgical approach, delineate the surgical technique, review the literature, and elaborate on the outstanding questions of the SQLPCV treatment of TTTS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Megacystis-microcolon-intestinal hypoperistalsis syndrome (MMIHS) is characterized by prenatal-onset distended urinary bladder with functional intestinal obstruction, requiring extensive surgical intervention for survival. While it is believed to be an autosomal recessive disorder, most cases are sporadic. Through whole-exome sequencing in a child with MMIHS, we identified a de novo mutation, p.R178L, in the gene encoding the smooth muscle gamma-2 actin, ACTG2. We subsequently detected another de novo ACTG2 mutation, p.R178C, in an additional child with MMIHS. Actg2 transcripts were primarily found in murine urinary bladder and intestinal tissues. Structural analysis and functional experiments suggested that both ACTG2 mutants interfere with proper polymerization of ACTG2 into thin filaments, leading to impaired contractility of the smooth muscle. In conclusion, our study suggests a pathogenic mechanism for MMIHS by identifying causative ACTG2 mutations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To assess whether the observed vs. expected lung-to-head ratio (o/e LHR) corrects for the dependence of the LHR on gestational age. Study design: Published data on right lung area (LA) and LHR were used to plot the 50th percentile and different fixed values of the o/e LHR (e.g. 30%) against gestational age from 16-32 weeks. The Z-scores for various fixed o/e LHR values and similar percent value of LA were calculated. The effect of using a fixed LHR or a fixed o/e LHR was tested against gestational age. The o/e LHR-equivalent to a fixed LHR of 1.0 was assessed against gestational age. Results: The LHR and the o/e LHR both increase with gestational age. The Z-score of a given fixed value of the o/e LHR (e.g. 30%) is not similar to the Z-score of the same percent (e.g., 30%) of the expected LA, and thus identifies different proportions of subjects. A fixed o/e LHR (e.g. 30%) results in different populations, depending on the gestational age. The o/e LHR equivalent to an LHR value of 1.0 decreases from 80% at 16 weeks to 30% at 32 weeks. Conclusions: The o/e LHR is not independent of gestational age. Studies using this parameter should be interpreted with caution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To evaluate pulmonary growth and development after fetoscopic intraluminal tracheal occlusion (FITO) using a modified 8-mm Z-stent in an ovine model of congenital left-sided diaphragmatic hernia (CDH). Methods: Thirty-three time-dated ewes were studied: Group I: healthy controls; Group II: CDH controls (untreated); Group III: CDH treated with FITO. CDH was created in Groups II and III at 70-80 days' gestation. FITO was performed at 100-110 days. Left lung histological, morphometric, immunohistochemical and biochemical studies were conducted after delivery and euthanasia at 138 days. Results: Fifteen (45%) animals (Group I: 3; Group II: 5; Group III: 7) were available for analysis. The left lung parenchymal volume to fetal weight ratios were similar between Groups I and III ( p = 0.24), and higher than Group II ( p < 0.05III (79 versus 75%, p = 0.26), compared to 41% in Group II ( p < 0.05). Pulmonary hypoplasia occurred in 1/7 (16%) in the FITO group, compared to 100% in Group II and 0% in Group I ( p = .003). DNA and protein were significantly increased in Group III ( p < 0.001). The concentration of type II pneumocytes was similar between healthy controls and the FITO group, and was paradoxically increased in untreated hernia fetuses. There was no histological evidence of tracheal injury. Conclusion: FITO with a modified 8-mm Z-stent is associated with lung growth and maturation similar to controls without obvious deleterious effects. A phase I clinical trial of FITO with the modified 8-mm Z-stent in severe CDH patients seems warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Umbilical artery Doppler velocimetry waveform notching has long been associated with umbilical cord abnormalities, such as distortion, torsion, and/or compression (i.e., constriction). The physical mechanism by which the notching occurs has not been elucidated. Flow velocity waveforms (FVWs) from two-dimensional pulsatile flows in a constricted channel approximating a compressed umbilical cord are analyzed, leading to a clear relationship between the notching and the constriction. Two flows with an asymmetric, semi-elliptical constriction are computed using a stabilized finite-element method. In one case, the constriction blocks 75% of the flow passage, and in the other the constriction blocks 85%. Channel width and prescribed flow rates at the channel inflow are consistent with typical cord diameters and flow rates reported in the literature. Computational results indicate that waveform notching is caused by flow separation induced by the constriction, giving rise to a vortex (core) wave and associated eddies. Notching in FVWs based on centerline velocity (centerline FVW) is directly related to the passage of an eddy over the point of measurement on the centerline. Notching in FVWs based on maximum cross-sectional velocity (envelope FVW) is directly related to acceleration and deceleration of the fluid along the vortex wave. Results show that notching in envelope FVW is not present in flows with less than a 75% constriction. Furthermore, notching disappears as the vortex wave is attenuated at distances downstream of the constriction. In the flows with 75 and 85% constriction, notching of the envelope FVW disappears at ∼3.8 and ∼4.3 cm (respectively) downstream of the constriction. These results are of significant medical importance, given that envelope FVW is typically measured by commercial Doppler systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. We sought to assess outcomes of triplets with feto-fetal transfusion syndrome (FFTS) treated with selective laser photocoagulation of communicating vessels (SLPCV). Study design. All twins and triplets with FFTS treated with SLPCV were analyzed. Triplets were classified as dichorionic–triamniotic (D/T) or monochorionic–triamniotic (M/T). In M/T triplets, SLPCV between FFTS affected recipient–donor pairs was performed first (step 1); SLPCV of remaining vascular communications was then attempted (step 2). Results. Forty-six of 692 (6.7%) gestations with FFTS treated with SLPCV were triplets; 40 (87%) were D/T, 6 (13%) were M/T. Overall perinatal survivorship in triplets versus twins were not different (73.9% vs. 75.1%, p = 0.757). SLPCV was achieved in 93% of D/T triplets. In the M/T triplets, step 1 was successful in all cases, and step 2 in half of cases. The D/T group delivered later in gestation than the M/T group (31.6 vs. 27.0 weeks, p = 0.049); no difference in overall perinatal survival was detected (75.8% vs. 61.1%, p = 0.248). Conclusion. Overall perinatal survival of triplets and twins with FFTS treated via SLPCV is similar. Significant surgical challenges were posed by monochorionic versus dichorionic triplets. Further studies of monochorionic triplets are required to ascertain perinatal survival post-SLPCV in this subset of triplets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. Vasa previa is associated with increased perinatal morbidity and mortality because of fetal exsanguination at time of membrane rupture. We report our experience in the treatment of type II vasa previa via in utero laser ablation in the third trimester. Methods. Two cases of type II vasa previa were identified via endovaginal ultrasound in the second trimester and treated via third trimester fetoscopic laser ablation. Results. In case 1, fetoscopic laser ablation of the vasa previa was performed without complication at 28 3/7 weeks' gestation as a prophylactic measure. The patient delivered at 33 3/7 weeks' gestation after rupture of membranes without sequelae with good perinatal outcome. In case 2, expectant management of twins with a vasa previa was planned. However, significant cervical shortening and funneling was documented at 30 5/7 weeks', and the risk of membrane rupture was deemed relatively high. As a therapeutic alternative to outright preterm delivery, the patient underwent uncomplicated laser ablation of the vasa previa. Delivery occurred at 34 3/7 weeks' after rupture of membranes, and the twins did well. Conclusions. We suggest that type II vasa previa can be definitively treated in utero by laser photocoagulation in the third trimester. Ablation of the vasa previa may be performed prophylactically or as a therapeutic measure to delay delivery if symptoms of preterm labor and/or cervical shortening develop. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. Dandy-Walker syndrome (DWS) is a developmental malformation of the central nervous system characterized by complete or partial absence of the cerebellar vermis, the presence of a posterior fossa cyst, and ventriculomegaly. Although DWS can be seen with Mendelian and chromosomal disorders, the actual pathophysiologic mechanism responsible for the syndrome is unknown. The incidence of DWS is approximately 1-8/100 000 births. We have noted a higher than expected incidence of DWS in a population of twins referred as complicated monochorionic twins, to include twin-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS). The purpose of this study was to assess the incidence of DWS in monochorionic twins. Methods. The database of all patients referred with complicated monochorionic twins was queried for the diagnosis of DWS. TTTS was defined sonographically as the combined presence of a maximum vertical pocket (MVP) of ≥8 cm in the recipient and ≤2 cm in the donor twin. Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) was defined as ≤10th percentile for gestational age. DWS was diagnosed sonographically as partial or total absence of the cerebellar vermis, the presence of a posterior fossa cyst, and ventriculomegaly. Risk factors for DWS included fetal status (donor/small twin, recipient/large twin), TTTS stage, absent end-diastolic velocity in the umbilical artery (AEDV), and IUGR. Results. The data on 660 patients with monochorionic twin pregnancies were reviewed. DWS was seen in 10 (1.5%) patients (four TTTS, five IUGR, and one monoamniotic twin). The affected fetus was the smaller twin (donor or IUGR) in 8/10 cases (80%, p = 0.055, RR 1.64 (1.17-2.19)). DWS fetuses were more likely to be growth-restricted (7/10, 70% vs. 217/650, 33.4%, p = 0.03) than the non-DWS counterparts. Conclusion. The incidence of DWS in complicated monochorionic twins is approximately 200 times higher than expected for singletons (p < 0.001). DWS is more likely to occur in the smaller twin of a twin pair and more likely to have growth restriction. These findings may assist in our understanding of the pathophysiologic mechanisms responsible for the development of DWS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Congenital cystic adenomatoid malformation (CCAM) is a rare lesion of the developing fetal lung consisting of increased cell proliferation in the bronchial structures with lack of differentiation of the alveoli. Pregnancies may be at an increased risk for perinatal loss with type III CCAM. The purpose of this paper is to present our experience with the management of complicated types II and III CCAM with a novel technique: percutaneous ultrasound-guided fetal sclerotherapy (FST). Methods: Three patients were referred with type II–III CCAM. Poor prognostic factors included hydrops, severe mediastinal shift, polyhydramnios and early gestational age (<26 weeks). Patients signed an informed consent. FST was performed with percutaneous injection of Ethamolin (ethanolamine oleate) or Polidocanol (aethoxysklerol) under ultrasound guidance using a 22-gauge needle. Results: Resolution of hydrops and of the mass effect was observed in all cases without any complications. All patients were delivered at term. Conclusions: Fetal sclerotherapy is a novel approach to the management of complicated type II–III CCAM. Further studies are indicated to assess the risks and benefits of this innovative technique. Copyright © 2008 S. Karger AG, Basel [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The 4q– syndrome comprises all microscopically visible deletions of the long arm of chromosome 4. Cases with 4q deletions represent a diverse group that share several phenotypic characteristics. We report the prenatal diagnosis of an isolated terminal 4q33 deletion in a fetus with hydrops. Method: A comprehensive workup, including an amniocentesis, was performed on a 32-week fetus presenting with massive hydrops and polyhydramnios. Results: The karyotype obtained from the amniotic fluid showed an unusual banding pattern on chromosome 4q. Fluorescent in situ hybridization revealed a 4q33-qter deletion. The proband shared several of the phenotypic characteristics of the 4q– syndrome. Multidisciplinary evaluation of the newborn confirmed the genotype and failed to identify another cause for the hydrops. Conclusion: We suggest that the broad spectrum of phenotypes expressed by patients with terminal 4q33 deletions includes hydrops fetalis. Copyright © 2008 S. Karger AG, Basel [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vasa previa, defined as fetal vessels coursing within the membranes between the presenting part and the cervix, occurs in approximately 1:2500-5000 pregnancies. Type II vasa previa consists of fetal vessels crossing over the internal os connecting a bilobed placenta or a succenturiate lobe with the main placental mass. These vessels are prone to compression during labor or may tear when membranes rupture potentially resulting in fetal exsanguination and neonatal death. This complication could be avoided altogether if the vessels could be obliterated in utero. The purpose of this communication is to report the successful in utero laser ablation of type II vasa previa at 22.5 weeks of gestation. Subsequent ruptured membranes did not result in untoward fetal consequences. Risks and benefits of this novel procedure are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. We have previously described the selective laser photocoagulation of communicating vessels (SLPCV) technique for the treatment of twin-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS). Because TTTS is thought to result from a net transfer of blood from the donor twin to the recipient twin, we hypothesized that lasering the arteriovenous anastomoses from the donor to the recipient (AVDRs) first (sequential SLPCV or SQLPCV) would result in an improved hemodynamic status and decreased likelihood of intrauterine fetal demise of the donor twin (IUFD-D). Materials and methods. The diagnosis of TTTS was made by ultrasound showing the combined presence of a maximum vertical pocket ≥ 8 cm in one sac and ≤2 cm in the other in a monochorionic/diamniotic twin pregnancy. Triplet pregnancies and monoamniotic pregnancies were excluded. Severity of TTTS was assessed using the Quintero staging system. All vascular anastomoses were endoscopically identified and classified as AVDR (AV from donor to recipient), AVRD (AV from recipient to donor), arterio-arterial (AA), or veno-venous (VV). The surgical procedure was coded as SQLPCV if all AVDRs were lasered first. Outcome measures included intrauterine fetal demise and perinatal survival. Results. One hundred and ninety-three TTTS patients (137 SQLPCV, 56 SLPCV) underwent surgery from May 2003 to August 2005. Gestational age at surgery or at delivery, Stage, patent anastomoses, or persistent/reverse TTTS were not different between the groups. IUFD-D was significantly lower in the SQLPCV than in the SLPCV group (7.3% vs 21.4%, respectively, p = 0.005). Dual perinatal survival was significantly higher in the SQLPCV than in the SLPCV group (73.7% vs 57.1%, respectively, p = 0.02), although the incidence of at least one survivor was not different between the groups (90.5% vs 87.5%, respectively). Logistic regression showed SQLPCV, but not placental location, operating time or number of anastomoses to be significantly associated with a decreased likelihood of IUFD-D (p = 0.007). Conclusion. SQLPCV is associated with a decreased likelihood of IUFD-D and an increased rate of dual survivors compared to SLPCV. SQLPCV represents both an anatomical and functional surgical approach to the laser treatment of twin-twin transfusion syndrome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A case of prenatal diagnosis of bilateral congenital cystic adenomatoid malformation of the lung (CCAM) is presented. The differential diagnosis among CCAM, pulmonary sequestration, bronchial obstruction, and laryngeal atresia is discussed. The role of diagnostic fetoscopy and fetal lung biopsy as an adjunct to ultrasound is addressed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To describe the paradoxical occurrence of a scalloped placenta in the presence of polyhydramnios and assess its clinical significance in pregnancies complicated by twin-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS) treated with laser therapy. Methods: All patients who underwent laser therapy for TTTS between January 2003 and April 2004 were studied. TTTS was diagnosed and staged using the Quintero staging system. Normally the placenta is characterized by undulations of the fetal-placental surface visible by ultrasound (scalloped placenta). Patients with polyhydramnios will typically have a flattened, smooth, non-scalloped placenta. Operative tapes were reviewed and placental type assigned. Pre-, intra-, and postoperative characteristics of each study patient were obtained. Results: Fifteen of 120 patients (12.5%) were noted to have a scalloped placenta despite having polyhydramnios. There was no difference in mean gestational age at laser treatment (20.3+/-0.5 vs. 19.6+/-0.6 weeks, p=0.66) or in stage (p=0.07) between the two groups. The median and range preoperative maximum vertical pocket (MVP) in the recipient gestational sac differed significantly between the scalloped and non-scalloped patients (8.3 (8-12) vs. 10.5 (8-17), p=0.001). All 15 patients (100%) with a scalloped placenta required an amnioinfusion to expose all vascular anastomoses, while amnioinfusion was necessary in only 28 of the 105 patients (26.7%, p<0.001) with a non-scalloped placenta. Postoperative patent placental vessel was identified by surgical pathology in 6.7% of the scalloped placenta group vs. 1.9% of the non-scalloped placenta group (p=NS). Conclusion: The definition of TTTS requires an MVP>or=8 cm in the recipient sac. Most patients will have a flattened placenta as a result of polyhydramnios in this sac. Our data show that a paradoxical scalloped placenta may still be present in approximately 12.5% of patients. This preoperative sonographic finding alerts to the potential need for amnioinfusion during laser therapy for TTTS to disclose all vessels to avoid missing placental vascular anastomoses. Amniocenteses should be avoided if possible in patients considering laser therapy to minimize the likelihood of iatrogenic placental scalloping. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the prognostic value of sonographic and clinical parameters to develop a staging classification of twin-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS). STUDY DESIGN: Severe TTTS was defined as the presence of polyhydramnios (maximum vertical pocket of ≥8 cm) and oligohydramnios (maximum vertical pocket of ≤2 cm). Nonvisualization of the bladder in the donor twin (-BDT) and absence of presence of hydrops was also noted. The middle cerebral artery, umbilical artery, ductus venosus, and umbilical vein in both fetuses were assessed with pulsed Doppler. Critically abnormal Doppler studies (CADs) were defined as absent/reverse end-diastolic velocity in the umbilical artery, reverse flow in the ductus venosus, or pulsatile flow in the umbilical vein. TTTS was staged as follows: stage I, BDT still visible; stage II, BDT no longer visible, no CADs; stage III, CADs; stage IV, hydrops; stage V, demise of one or both twins. Laser photocoagulation of communicating vessels (LPCV) or umbilical cord ligation was performed depending on the severity of the condition. The study was approved by the Institutional Review Board of St. Joseph's Hospital in Tampa and by the Fetal Therapy Board at Hutzel Hospital, Detroit, and all patients gave informed consent. RESULTS: A total of 80 of 108 referred patients met criteria for surgery, but only 65 were treated surgically: 48 with LPCV and 17 with umbilical cord ligation. Complete Doppler data were obtainable in 41 of 48 LPCV patients. Survival rates by stage for one or two fetuses were statistically different (&khgr;-squared analysis = 12.9, df = 6, p = 0.044). Neither percent size discordance nor gestational age at diagnosis were predictive of outcome. CONCLUSION: Staging of TTTS using the proposed criteria has prognostic significance. This staging system may allow comparison of outcome data of TTTS with different treatment modalities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Treatment of twin-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS) via the sequential selective laser photocoagulation of communicating vessels (SQLPCV) technique involves lasering the arteriovenous communications from the donor twin to the recipient twin first, followed by the arteriovenous communications from the recipient twin to the donor. Occluding the vascular communications in this particular order may result in transient intraoperative net transfusion to the donor twin and facilitate hemodynamic equilibrium, particularly to the volume depleted donor twin. Preliminary evidence suggests that the SQLPCV technique may result in improved perinatal outcomes compared with the standard selective (SLPCV) laser surgical approach. In this article, we describe the pathophysiological basis for this surgical approach, delineate the surgical technique, review the literature, and elaborate on the outstanding questions of the SQLPCV treatment of TTTS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]