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Introduction: Twin-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS) is a complication in monochorionic twin pregnancies which is preferably treated with fetoscopic laser surgery. A few small studies suggested a possible association between the Solomon laser technique and placental abruption. Methods: The objective of this study is to compare the rate of and to explore potential risk factors for placental abruption in TTTS treated with fetoscopic laser surgery according to the Selective and Solomon laser technique. We conducted a large retrospective cohort study of consecutive TTTS-cases treated with fetoscopic laser surgery in Shanghai, China, and Leiden, The Netherlands treated with either the Selective laser technique (Selective group) or Solomon laser technique (Solomon group). Results: The rate of placental abruption in the Selective group versus the Solomon group was 1.7% (5/289) and 3.4% (15/441), respectively (p = 0.184). No risk factors for placental abruption were identified. Placental abruption was associated with lower gestational age at birth (p = 0.003) and severe cerebral injury (p = 0.003). Conclusion: The prevalence of placental abruption in TTTS after fetoscopic laser surgery is low, although it appears higher than in the overall population. Placental abruption is associated with a lower gestational age at birth, which is associated with severe cerebral injury. The rate of placental abruption was not significantly increased with the use of the Solomon technique. Continued research of placental abruption in TTTS is necessary to determine why the rate is higher than in the overall population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Evaluate the incidence of and risk factors for behavioural problems in twin-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS) survivors treated with fetoscopic laser coagulation.Design: Observational cohort study.Setting: National referral center for fetal therapy, Leiden University Medical Center, The Netherlands.Patients: Behavioural outcome was assessed in 417 TTTS survivors, at the age of 2 years.Interventions: Parents completed the Child Behavior Checklist for their twins. Antenatal, neonatal and follow-up data including Bayley III and a neurological exam were recorded from the medical database.Main Outcome Measures: The incidence of and risk factors for behavioural problems.Results: 332 twin pregnancies (664 fetuses) were treated with fetoscopic laser for TTTS between 2008 and 2015. For 517 children eligible for follow-up, 417 (81%) Child Behavior Checklist questionnaires were completed. The study group was born at a mean gestational age of 32.8 weeks±3.2. Total behavioural problems within the borderline to clinical range were reported in 8% (95% CI 5.9 to 11.2) of survivors, compared with 10% in the general Dutch population (p=0.12). No difference between donors and recipients was detected (p=0.84). Internalising and externalising problems were reported in 9.4% (95% CI 6.9 to 12.6) and 11.5% (95% CI 8.8 to 15.0), respectively. Severe neurodevelopmental impairment was more frequent in the children with behavioural problems. High maternal educational level was associated with lower behavioural problem scores.Conclusion: Parents of twins treated with fetoscopic laser therapy for TTTS do not report more behavioural problems compared with general population norms. More behavioural problems are reported in children with severe neurodevelopmental impairment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the differences in leukocyte counts at birth between donors and recipients with twin-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS) or twin anemia-polycythemia sequence (TAPS). Methods: We performed a retrospective cohort study in monochorionic twin pairs with TTTS or TAPS. TTTS and TAPS cases treated with fetoscopic laser surgery were excluded. Primary outcome was the difference in leukocyte levels at birth between donor and recipient twins and the presence of leukopenia (defined as leukocyte count <4 × 109/L). Secondary outcomes included early-onset sepsis, necrotizing enterocolitis, use of antibiotics during admission, and neonatal mortality. Results: We included 99 twins pairs, of which 61 twin pairs were affected by TAPS and 38 twin pairs by TTTS. The mean leukocyte count at birth in donors and recipients was 7.5 × 109/L versus 7.4 × 109/L (p = 0.936), respectively. Leukopenia was significantly more common in donor twins compared to recipient twins (7.1% [7/99] vs. 0% [0/99], p = 0.016). Of the 7 donors with leukopenia, 6 were affected by TAPS and 1 by TTTS. Overall, donors were more often affected by early-onset sepsis than recipients, 23.7% (23/97) versus 13% (13.7/95) (p = 0.049), respectively. Conclusions: Leukocyte counts at birth in twins with TTTS or TAPS are similar between donors and recipients, but TAPS donors are at an increased risk of leukopenia. Overall, TTTS and TAPS donors seem to be at an increased risk of early-onset neonatal sepsis compared to recipient twins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The aim of this study is to evaluate the incidence and causes of intentional fetal and neonatal demise in twin-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS).Material and Methods: All TTTS pregnancies managed at our centre between 2000 and 2014 were included. We evaluated incidence and causes of intentional fetal/neonatal demise, defined as termination of pregnancy, selective fetal reduction, or withdrawal of neonatal intensive care.Results: Intentional fetal/neonatal demise occurred in 9.8% (110/1,122) of fetuses and was due to termination of pregnancy (2.2%), selective fetal reduction (4.2%), or withdrawal of neonatal intensive care (3.4%). Reasons for termination of pregnancy included complications of laser treatment (72.0%), severe fetal anomaly (20.0%), and unwanted pregnancy (8.0%). Reasons for selective fetal reduction were technical difficulties to perform laser surgery (51.1%), fetal complications (38.3%), and parental preference for fetal reduction rather than laser treatment (10.6%). Reasons for withdrawal of neonatal intensive care treatment were severe cerebral injury (47.4%), severe pulmonary complications (15.8%), birth asphyxia (5.3%), multiple complications of TTTS and/or prematurity combined (21.1%), or other (10.5%).Conclusions: Intentional fetal or neonatal demise in TTTS occurs frequently and is often due to complications after laser surgery and/or severe (cerebral) injury in affected fetuses or neonates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To assess the impact of laser power and firing angle on coagulation efficiency for closing placental anastomoses in the treatment of twin-twin transfusion syndrome.Methods: We used an ex vivo blood-perfused human placenta model to compare time to complete coagulation using 30 vs. 50 W of neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet laser power and using a firing angle of 90° vs. 45°. Placentas were perfused with pig blood at 5 mL/min. Differences were analyzed using independent-samples t test, Mann-Whitney U test, or χ2 test as appropriate.Results: Coagulation took less time and energy using 50 W (n = 53) compared to 30 W (n = 52), 11 vs. 22 s (p < 0.001), and 557 vs. 659 J (p = 0.007). Perpendicular coagulation (n = 53) took less time and energy compared to a 45° angle (n = 21), 11 vs. 17 s (p = 0.004), and 557 vs. 871 J (p = 0.004). Bleeding complicated 2 (3%) measurements in the 50-W group, 5 (10%) in the 30-W group, and 3 (14%) in the 45° group.Discussion: In a highly controlled model, a 50-W laser power setting was more energy efficient than 30 W in coagulating a placental vein. A more perpendicular laser firing angle resulted in more efficient coagulation. Furthermore, bleeding due to vessel wall disruption occurred more often with lower power and a more tangential approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study is to investigate the short-term renal function in neonates with twin-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS), treated with fetoscopic laser surgery (laser group) or conservatively (non-laser group). Creatinine and urea levels and urine output were recorded in the first week after birth. Primary outcome was short-term renal dysfunction, defined as a creatinine level of >100 μmol/L during the first week postpartum. We evaluated 312 twins (laser group, n = 274; non-laser group, n = 38). Median creatinine and urea levels were lower in the laser group than in the non-laser group (71 versus 82 μmol/L, p = 0.002). Short-term renal dysfunction was lower in the laser group compared to the non-laser group (7.2 versus 34.4%, p < 0.001). Within the laser group, creatinine levels were significantly higher in the subgroup with incomplete laser surgery compared to twins with successful laser surgery (76 versus 69 μmol/L, p = 0.018). No differences were found between donors and recipients except for a higher incidence of oliguria in donors in the non-laser group on day 1.Conclusion: Short-term renal dysfunction occurs less frequently in TTTS twins treated with fetoscopic laser coagulation, particularly after complete surgery, suggesting that laser surgery may have a protective effect on renal function. What is Known: • Antenatally, donor twins in TTTS have severe oliguria due to chronic hypovolemia and impaired renal perfusion • Postnatally, donor twins may suffer from severe renal complications, particularly in TTTS twins treated conservatively. What is New: • The incidence of short-term renal failure in TTTS twins treated with complete laser surgery is low. • After incomplete laser surgery, the incidence of short-term renal dysfunction is increased. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Twin-Twin Transfusion Syndrome (TTTS) is associated with an increased risk of perinatal mortality and morbidity. Several treatment interventions have been described for TTTS, including fetoscopic laser surgery, amnioreduction, septostomy, expectant management, and pregnancy termination. Over the last decade, fetoscopic laser surgery has become the primary treatment. The literature to date reports on many different outcomes, making it difficult to compare results or combine data from individual studies, limiting the value of research to guide clinical practice. With the advent and ongoing development of new therapeutic techniques, this is more important than ever. The development and use of a core outcome set has been proposed to address these issues, prioritising outcomes important to the key stakeholders, including patients. We aim to produce, disseminate, and implement a core outcome set for TTTS.Methods: An international steering group has been established to oversee the development of this core outcome set. This group includes healthcare professionals, researchers and patients. A systematic review is planned to identify previously reported outcomes following treatment for TTTS. Following completion, the identified outcomes will be evaluated by stakeholders using an international, multi-perspective online modified Delphi method to build consensus on core outcomes. This method encourages the participants towards consensus 'core' outcomes. All key stakeholders will be invited to participate. The steering group will then hold a consensus meeting to discuss results and form a core outcome set to be introduced and measured. Once core outcomes have been agreed, the next step will be to determine how they should be measured, disseminated, and implemented within an international context.Discussion: The development, dissemination, and implementation of a core outcome set in TTTS will enable its use in future clinical trials, systematic reviews and clinical practice guidelines. This is likely to advance the quality of research studies and their effective use in order to guide clinical practice and improve patient care, maternal, short-term perinatal outcomes and long-term neurodevelopmental outcomes.Trial Registration: Core Outcome Measures in Effectiveness Trials (COMET), 921 Registered on July 2016. International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO), CRD42016043999 . Registered on 2 August 2016. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To investigate the occurrence of early-onset neonatal sepsis (EOS) in twin-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS) managed with laser surgery.Study Design: We performed a prospective cohort study of all consecutive TTTS cases treated with laser surgery (TTTS group) delivered at the Leiden University Medical Center. We recorded the occurrence of EOS, defined as a positive blood culture ≤72 hours postpartum (proven sepsis) or administration of a full course of antibiotics due to risk factors or signs of sepsis, in the absence of a positive blood culture (suspected sepsis). Perinatal variables in the TTTS group were compared with uncomplicated monochorionic twins (no-TTTS group). A multivariate model was generated, examining the association between EOS and gestational age at birth, interval between laser surgery and birth, anterior placenta, laser period (first study period: 2002-2008; second study period: 2009-2015), and preterm premature rupture of membranes (PPROM).Results: The rates of combined suspected and proven EOS in the TTTS group and no-TTTS group were 16% (68/416) and 10% (55/542), respectively (relative ratio [RR] 1.74, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.19-2.55). Multivariate analysis showed that EOS in the TTTS group was independently associated with lower gestational age at birth (odds ratio [OR] 0.75, 95% CI 0.63-0.88), first study period (OR 2.25, 95% CI 1.08-4.67) and PPROM (OR 2.47, 95% CI 1.28-4.75).Conclusion: The rate of EOS in the TTTS group is low, but increased compared to the no-TTTS group. EOS in TTTS is independently associated with premature delivery, earlier laser period, and PPROM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Twin-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS) is a severe complication of monochorionic (MC) twin pregnancies associated with high perinatal mortality and morbidity rates. Management in TTTS is a major challenge for obstetricians and neonatologists. Twins with TTTS are often born prematurely after an extremely distressing and highly hazardous fetal period. Follow-up studies report varying rates of cerebral palsy (CP) and long-term neurodevelopmental impairment (NDI). This review discusses the latest findings on the long-term outcome of TTTS survivors, possible risk factors for long-term impairment, and provides recommendations for future research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To identify a learning curve and monitor operator performance for fetoscopic laser surgery for twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome using cumulative sum analysis. Design Retrospective cohort study. Setting National tertiary referral center for invasive fetal therapy. Population A total of 340 consecutive monochorionic pregnancies with twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome treated with fetoscopic laser coagulation between August 2000 and December 2010. Methods A learning curve was generated using learning curve cumulative sum analysis and cumulative sum methodology to assess changes in double survival across the case sequence. Laser surgery was initially performed by two operators, joined by a third and fourth operator after 1 and 2 years, respectively. Main outcome measures Individual operator performance, double perinatal survival at 4 weeks. Results Overall survival of both twins occurred in 59% (201/340), median gestational age at birth was 32.0 weeks. Cumulative sum graphs showed that level of competence for double survival for the operators was reached after 26, 25, 26, and 35 procedures, respectively. Two operators kept their competence level and continued to improve after completing the initial learning process; two others went out of control at one point in time, according to the cumulative sum boundaries. A difference in learning effect was associated with number of procedures performed annually and previous experience with other ultrasound-guided invasive procedures. Conclusions This study shows that all operators reached a level of competence after at least 25 fetoscopic laser procedures and confirms the value of using the cumulative sum method both for learning curve assessment and for ongoing quality control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To estimate the odds of severe cerebral injury and long-term neurodevelopmental impairment in monochorionic twins treated with amnioreduction versus laser surgery for twin-twin transfusion syndrome. Methods: A systematic review and meta-analysis of studies on cerebral injury and long-term impairment after amnioreduction versus laser surgery were conducted. Odds ratios (OR) with their 95% confidence interval (CI) were computed. Results: Electronic and manual search identified 63 references. Five studies were included for analysis. We found an ample seven-fold higher risk of severe cerebral injury in live-born children treated with amnioreduction compared to laser (OR 7.69, 95% CI 2.78-20.0, p = 0.00). In children surviving the neonatal period, the odds were three-times higher following amnioreduction (OR 3.23, 95% CI 1.45-7.14, p = 0.00). Although not significant, monochorionic twins treated with amnioreduction had higher odds of periventricular leukomalacia and intraventricular hemorrhage (OR 2.08, 95% CI 0.86-5.00, p = 0.10 and OR 3.56, 95% CI 0.82-14.29, p = 0.09). Unfortunately, there were insufficient long-term outcome data available to estimate the odds of neurodevelopmental impairment. Conclusion: Amnioreduction is associated with an increased risk of severe cerebral injury compared to laser surgery in twin-twin transfusion syndrome. Our study highlights a lack of studies focusing on long-term neurodevelopmental outcome. Follow-up into childhood is indispensable to determine outcome in terms of motor, cognitive and socioemotional development. Copyright © 2012 S. Karger AG, Basel [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Twin–twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS) is a severe complication of monochorionic twin pregnancies associated with high perinatal mortality and morbidity rates. Management in TTTS is a major challenge for obstetricians and neonatologists. Twins which are often born prematurely and may suffer from typical conditions associated with prematurity. In addition, surviving twins with TTTS are at increased risk for other complications including neurological, cardiovascular, renal and hematologic morbidity. Rare complications such as hypoxic–ischemic lesions to limbs or intestines and amniotic band syndrome have also been reported in TTTS survivors. This review focuses on the neonatal and pediatric mortality and morbidity in TTTS survivors, with special emphasis on the long-term neurodevelopmental outcome. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background: Twin anemia polycythemia sequence is a chronic form of unbalanced fetofetal transfusion through minuscule placental anastomoses in monochorionic twins, leading to anemia in the donor and polycythemia in the recipient. Owing to the low incidence of twin anemia polycythemia sequence, data on diagnosis, management, and outcome are limited.Objective: This study aimed to investigate the diagnosis, management, and outcome in a large international cohort of spontaneous twin anemia polycythemia sequence.Study Design: Data from the international twin anemia polycythemia sequence registry, retrospectively collected between 2014 and 2019, were used for this study. A total of 17 fetal therapy centers contributed to the data collection. The primary outcomes were perinatal mortality and severe neonatal morbidity. Secondary outcomes included a risk factor analysis for perinatal mortality and severe neonatal morbidity.Results: A total of 249 cases of spontaneous twin anemia polycythemia sequence were included in this study, 219 (88%) of which were diagnosed antenatally and 30 (12%) postnatally. Twin anemia polycythemia sequence was diagnosed antenatally at a median gestational age of 23.7 weeks (interquartile range, 9.7-28.8; range, 15.1-35.3). Antenatal management included laser surgery in 39% (86 of 219), expectant management in 23% (51 of 219), delivery in 16% (34 of 219), intrauterine transfusion (with partial exchange transfusion) in 12% (26 of 219), selective feticide in 8% (18 of 219), and termination of pregnancy in 1% (3 of 219) of cases. Perinatal mortality rate was 15% (72 of 493) for the total group, 22% (54 of 243) for donors, and 7% (18 of 242) for recipients (P<.001). Severe neonatal morbidity occurred in 33% (141 of 432) of twins with twin anemia polycythemia sequence and was similar for donors (32%; 63 of 196) and recipients (33%; 75 of 228) (P=.628). Independent risk factors for spontaneous perinatal mortality were donor status (odds ratio, 3.8; 95% confidence interval, 1.9-7.5; P<.001), antenatal twin anemia polycythemia sequence stage (odds ratio, 6.3; 95% confidence interval, 1.4-27.8; P=.016 [stage 2]; odds ratio, 9.6; 95% confidence interval, 2.1-45.5; P=.005 [stage 3]; odds ratio, 20.9; 95% confidence interval, 3.0-146.4; P=.002 [stage 4]), and gestational age at birth (odds ratio, 0.8; 95% confidence interval, 0.7-0.9; P=.001). Independent risk factors for severe neonatal morbidity were antenatal twin anemia polycythemia sequence stage 4 (odds ratio, 7.9; 95% confidence interval, 1.4-43.3; P=.018) and gestational age at birth (odds ratio, 1.7; 95% confidence interval, 1.5-2.1, P<.001).Conclusion: Spontaneous twin anemia polycythemia sequence can develop at any time in pregnancy from the beginning of the second trimester to the end of the third trimester. Management for twin anemia polycythemia sequence varies considerably, with laser surgery being the most frequent intervention. Perinatal mortality and severe neonatal morbidity were high, the former especially so in the donor twins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Postprocedural amniotic band disruption sequence is a condition that is associated with intrauterine interventions, and it is characterized by a constriction of the limbs or umbilical cord by fibrous strands, leading to edema, amputation, and/or fetal demise.Objective: To evaluate the prevalence of, risk factors for, and the outcome of postprocedural amniotic band disruption sequence after fetoscopic laser surgery in twin-twin transfusion syndrome cases.Study Design: All consecutive cases of twin-twin transfusion syndrome treated with fetoscopic laser coagulation of the vascular anastomoses at our center between January 2002 and March 2019 were included in the study. The occurrence of postprocedural amniotic band disruption sequence in these cases was recorded, and the potential risk factors were analyzed.Results: Postprocedural amniotic band disruption sequence was detected, at birth, in 2.2% (15/672) of twin-twin transfusion syndrome cases treated with fetoscopic laser surgery, in both the recipients (10/15, 67%) and the donors (5/15, 33%). Postprocedural amniotic band disruption sequence primarily affected the lower extremities (11/15, 73%) and, less frequently, the upper extremities (2/15, 13%), both the upper and lower extremities (1/15, 7%), or the umbilical cord (1/15, 7%). Postprocedural amniotic band disruption sequence led to the amputation of toes in 5 of 15 cases (33%) and resulted in fetal demise because of constriction of the umbilical cord in 1 case (7%). The independent risk factors identified for postprocedural amniotic band disruption sequence were lower gestational age at laser surgery (odds ratio per week, 1.43; 95% confidence interval, 1.12-1.79; P=.003) and the presence of postprocedural chorioamniotic membrane separation on antenatal ultrasound examination (odds ratio, 41.66; 95% confidence interval, 5.44-319.25; P<.001).Conclusion: The prevalence of postprocedural amniotic band disruption sequence is low, but, when present, it may lead to severe consequences, with amputation of extremities or fetal demise occurring in more than one-third of the cases. Lower gestational age at the time of laser therapy and chorioamniotic membrane separation are independent risk factors for the postprocedural amniotic band disruption sequence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As twin-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS) and selective fetal growth restriction (sFGR) are both prevalent complications of monochorionic (MC) twin pregnancies, its coexistence is not uncommon. The aim of this study is to evaluate the short and long-term outcome in TTTS with and without sFGR prior to fetoscopic laser coagulation. All TTTS cases treated with laser surgery at our center between 2001–2019 were retrospectively reviewed for the presence of sFGR, defined as an estimated fetal weight (EFW) <10th centile. We compared two groups: TTTS-only and TTTS + sFGR. Primary outcomes were perinatal survival and long-term severe neurodevelopmental impairment (NDI). Of the 527 pregnancies eligible for analysis, 40.8% (n = 215) were categorized as TTTS-only and 59.2% (n = 312) as TTTS + sFGR. Quintero stage at presentation was higher in the TTTS + sFGR group compared to the TTTS-only group (57% compared to 44% stage III). Separate analysis of donors showed significantly lower perinatal survival for donors in the TTTS + sFGR group (72% (224/311) compared to 81% (173/215), p = 0.027). Severe NDI at follow-up in long-term survivors in the TTTS-only and TTTS + sFGR group was present in 7% (13/198) and 9% (27/299), respectively (p = 0.385). Both sFGR (OR 1.5;95% CI 1.1–2.0, p = 0.013) and lower gestational age at laser (OR 1.1;95% CI 1.0–1.1, p = 0.001) were independently associated with decreased perinatal survival. Thus, sFGR prior to laser surgery is associated with a more severe initial presentation and decreased donor perinatal survival. The long-term outcome was not affected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite many developments in its management, twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS) remains an important risk factor for long-term neurodevelopmental impairment (NDI). Our objective was to compare the incidence of severe NDI in a recent cohort of TTTS survivors, treated with laser surgery from 2011 to 2014, with a previous cohort treated from 2008 to 2010. Neurological, cognitive, and motor development were assessed at two years of age. We determined risk factors associated with Bayley-III scores. Severe NDI occurred in 7/241 (3%) survivors in the new cohort compared to 10/169 (6%) in the previous cohort (p = 0.189). Disease-free survival (survival without severe impairment) did not significantly differ. Low birth weight and being small for gestational age (SGA) were independently associated with lower cognitive scores (both p < 0.01). Severe cerebral injury was related to decreased motor scores (B = −14.10; 95% CI −3.16, −25.04; p = 0.012). Children with severe NDI were born ≥32 weeks' gestation in 53% of cases and had no evidence of cerebral injury on cranial ultrasound in 59% of cases. Our results suggest that improvement in outcome of TTTS has reached a plateau. Low birth weight, SGA, and cerebral injury are risk factors for poor neurodevelopmental outcome. Neither gestational age above 32 weeks nor the absence of cerebral injury preclude severe NDI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence of co-existing anemia-polycythemia (AP) in twin pregnancies with twin-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS) prior to laser surgery, and to evaluate the characteristics and outcomes in TTTS twins with and without AP. All TTTS cases treated with laser between 2001 and 2019 were retrospectively reviewed for the presence of AP before surgery. AP was defined as delta middle cerebral artery–peak systolic velocity > 0.5 multiples of the median. The primary outcome was a composite of perinatal survival and severe neurodevelopmental impairment (NDI). Secondary outcomes included procedure-related characteristics, severe neonatal morbidity, and disease-free survival. In total, 66% (461/696) of TTTS twin pregnancies were eligible for analysis. AP was detected in 15% (70/461) of the TTTS twins prior to laser surgery. Gestational age at laser was higher in the TTTS+AP group compared to the TTTS-only group—21.0 weeks (interquartile rage (IQR): 18.8–24.0) versus 19.3 weeks (IQR: 17.3–21.9), respectively (p < 0.0001). Fewer placental anastomoses were detected in the TTTS+AP group than in the TTTS-only group—five (IQR: 4–6) versus six (IQR: 5–8), respectively (p < 0.0001). Perinatal survival was 77% (599/782) in the TTTS-only group and 83% (118/142) in the TTTS+AP group (p = 0.130). Severe NDI was 8% (28/370) in TTTS-only and 3% (2/74) in TTTS+AP. TTTS-only twins showed more severe neonatal morbidity than twins with TTTS+AP—23% (132/575) versus 11% (13/115), respectively (p = 0.005). Disease-free survival was lower in the TTTS-only group compared to the TTTS+AP group—62% (341/548) versus 73% (72/98), respectively (p = 0.046). Thus, AP complicates 15% of TTTS twins prior to laser. TTTS+AP twins show a different placental angioarchitecture, a later time of onset of the disease, and a more favorable outcome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The preferred treatment for twin-twin transfusion syndrome is fetoscopic laser coagulation of inter-twin vascular anastomoses on the monochorionic placenta. Severe postoperative complications can occur when inter-twin vascular anastomoses remain patent including twin-anemia polycythemia sequence or recurrent twin-twin transfusion syndrome. To minimize the occurrence of residual anastomoses, a modified laser surgery technique, the Solomon technique, was developed in which the entire vascular equator is coagulated. In the Solomon randomized controlled trial (NTR1245), the Solomon technique was associated with a significant reduction in twin-anemia polycythemia sequence and recurrence of twin-twin transfusion syndrome when compared with the standard laser surgery technique. Although a significant improvement in perinatal outcome was shown after the Solomon technique, the clinical importance should also be ascertained with long-term follow-up evaluation of the surviving children.Objective: The purpose of this study was to compare the long-term neurodevelopmental outcome in surviving children with twin-twin transfusion syndrome who were included in the Solomon randomized trial and treated with either the Solomon technique or standard laser surgery technique.Study Design: Routine standardized follow-up evaluation in survivors, at least 2 years after the estimated date of delivery, was performed at 2 of the 5 centers that participated in the Solomon trial: Buzzi Hospital Milan (Italy) and Leiden University Medical Center (The Netherlands). The primary outcome of this follow-up study was survival without long-term neurodevelopmental impairment at age 2 years. Neurodevelopmental impairment was defined as cerebral palsy, cognitive and/or motor development score of <85, bilateral blindness, or deafness. Cognitive and motor development was evaluated with the use of Bayley-III. All analyses per fetus, neonate, or child were conducted with the generalized estimated equation module to account for the effect that observations between co-twins are not independent.Results: The primary outcome (survival without neurodevelopmental impairment) was detected in 95 of 141 cases (67%) in the Solomon group and in 99 of 146 cases (68%) in the standard group (P = .92). Neurodevelopmental impairment in long-term survivors who were included for follow-up evaluation was detected in 12 of 107 cases (11%) in the Solomon and in 10 of 109 cases (9%) in the standard group (P = .61). Neurodevelopmental impairment was due to cerebral palsy in 1 case (1%; spastic unilateral) in the Solomon group and in 2 cases (2%; spastic unilateral and spastic bilateral) in the standard group (P = .58). Cognitive development <85 cases was detected in 2 of 105 children (2%) in the Solomon group and in 6 of 106 children (6%) in the standard group (P = .23). Motor development <85 occurred in 8 of 103 children (8%) in the Solomon group and 3 of 104 children (3%) in the standard group (P = .23).Conclusion: We found no difference in survival without neurodevelopmental impairment between the Solomon and standard laser techniques. In view of the reduction of short-term complications and the absence of increased adverse long-term effects, these data support the use of the Solomon technique in the treatment of twin-twin transfusion syndrome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Long-term neurodevelopmental outcome was evaluated in 82 twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome survivors who underwent festoscopic laser occlusion surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Objective Residual anastomoses after fetoscopic laser surgery for twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS) may lead to severe postoperative complications, including recurrent TTTS and twin anemia-polycythemia sequence (TAPS). A novel technique (Solomon technique) using laser coagulation of the entire vascular equator was recently investigated in a randomized controlled trial (Solomon trial) and compared with the Standard selective laser technique. The aim of this secondary analysis was to evaluate the occurrence and characteristics of residual anastomoses in placentas included in the Solomon trial. Study Design International multicenter randomized controlled trial in TTTS, randomized 1:1 ratio to either the Solomon laser technique or Standard laser technique. At time of laser, surgeons recorded whether they considered the procedure to be complete. Placental dye injection was performed after birth in the participating centers to evaluate the presence of residual anastomoses. Results A total of 151 placentas were included in the study. The percentage of placentas with residual anastomoses in the Solomon group and Standard group was 19% (14/74) and 34% (26/77), respectively ( P = .04). The percentage of placentas with residual anastomoses in the subgroup of cases where the procedure was recorded as complete was 8/65 (12%) and 22/69 (32%) in the Solomon group and Standard group, respectively ( P < .01). Conclusion The Solomon laser technique reduces the risk of residual anastomoses. However, careful follow-up remains essential also after the Solomon technique, as complete dichorionization is not always achieved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To compare the incidence of neurodevelopmental impairment in surviving children from pregnancies with twin-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS) treated with laser surgery between 2 time periods. Study Design: We compared the neurodevelopmental outcome between the first consecutive cohort of TTTS pregnancies treated with laser surgery from 2000 to 2005, with a cohort treated between 2008 and 2010. Neurologic, cognitive, and motor development was evaluated using Bayley scales at 2 years of age corrected for prematurity. Results: A total of 229 twin pregnancies were treated with laser surgery, 113 in the first cohort and 106 in the recent cohort. Overall survival increased from 70% (158/226) to 80% (170/212) (P = .014). The incidence of neurodevelopmental impairment decreased from 18% (28/152) to 6% (10/155) (P < .01). In multivariate analysis, severe cerebral injury at birth was independently associated with neurodevelopmental impairment (odds ratio, 34.86; 95% confidence interval, 11.83–102.75; P < .01). Conclusion: Overall survival in TTTS has improved over time, with a concomitant reduction in the incidence of neurodevelopmental impairment. Research focused on prevention of cerebral injury is needed to further improve outcomes of these complicated twin pregnancies. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Objective: We sought to compare short- and long-term outcome in Quintero stage 1 twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS), managed with laser surgery or conservatively. Study Design: We conducted a retrospective study of all monochorionic twin pregnancies with stage 1 TTTS referred to our center. Primary outcomes were perinatal survival, neonatal morbidity, and long-term neurodevelopmental outcome. Results: Fifty women presented with stage 1 TTTS of which 40% (20/50) was treated with laser and 60% (30/50) was managed conservatively. Perinatal survival of both or at least 1 twin was 65% (13/20) and 85% (17/20) in the laser group, and 77% (23/30) and 97% (29/30) in the conservatively managed group (P = .52 and P = .29), respectively. Long-term neurodevelopmental impairment of the surviving infants was found in 0% (0/21) vs 23% (7/30), respectively (P = .03). Conclusion: In this retrospective study, long-term outcome in stage 1 TTTS was better after laser surgery than with conservative management, suggesting the need for a randomized controlled trial. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Objective: To study the localization and size of residual anastomoses in twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome treated with fetoscopic laser surgery and correlate the findings with outcome. Study Design: Placental injection in twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome placentas treated with laser was performed by using colored dye. Results: A total of 77 twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome placentas were included in the study. Residual anastomoses (n = 48) were found in 32% (25/77) of lasered placentas. Most residual anastomoses were localized near the margin of the placenta. The majority of residual anastomoses (67%; 32/48) were very small (diameter, < 1 mm). Eleven of the 25 cases (44%) in the residual anastomoses group developed twin anemia-polycythemia sequence. Conclusion: Most residual anastomoses in twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome placentas treated with laser are very small and localized near the placental margin. Almost half of cases with residual anastomoses developed twin anemia-polycythemia sequence after laser surgery. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Objective: To estimate the incidence of histologic chorioamnionitis and funisitis after fetoscopic laser surgery for the management of twin-twin transfusion syndrome.Methods: A case-control study was performed at the Leiden University Medical Center from 2013 to 2014. All patients with twin-twin transfusion syndrome managed with laser surgery during the study period were included and compared with a control group of all monochorionic twins not treated with laser surgery. We excluded patients with fetal demise or higher order pregnancies. Placentas were reviewed for the presence and degree of chorioamnionitis and presence or absence of fetal inflammatory response. The primary outcome was the incidence of histologic chorioamnionitis and funisitis after laser surgery. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for primary outcomes were calculated. A P value of <.05 was considered as statistical significance.Results: Sixty-two patients treated with laser surgery were included in the study group and compared with 64 patients in the control group. The incidence of histologic chorioamnionitis was 13% (8/62) in the laser group compared with 5% (3/64) in the control group (OR 3.0, 95% CI 0.8-11.9, P=.12). Funisitis occurred in 8% (10/124) in the laser group compared with 0% in the control group (OR 11.1, 95% CI 1.3-96.9, P=.03). Histologic chorioamnionitis with or without funisitis after laser surgery was associated with a shorter laser-to-delivery interval (median 6.6 [range 3.4-14.1] compared with 13.6 [4.4-20.1] weeks, P<.01) and lower gestational age at birth (median 28.1 [range 23.1-32.6] compared with 32.7 [24.4-37.0] weeks, P<.01).Conclusion: These findings suggest that laser surgery for twin-twin transfusion syndrome is associated with an increased risk of funisitis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a study which examines the risk factors for adverse long-term neurodevelopment impairment in twin-twin transfusion syndrome treated with laser surgery. This case-control study was conducted on twin-twin transfusion syndrome cases that were treated in August 2000-December 2005 at three European centers.