Research Information System
Jinekoloji ve Obstetrik Dergisi, vol.17, no.3, pp.157-160, 2003 (Scopus, TRDizin)
OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the outcome of cases with twin-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS) treated by serial amniodrainage and the success rate of the procedure. STUDY DESIGN: Nine monochorionic twins treated by serial amniodrainage were included in the study. Ultrasound-guided amniodrainage was performed through the amniotic cavity of the recipient twin by 18-gauge amniocentesis needle. The amniodrainage procedure was repeated in case of recurrence of polyhdramnios. RESULT(s): Mean gestational age at the time of diagnosis for TTTS was 23±5.02 weeks. The mean amount of amniotic fluid drained per procedure was 1646±646 cc. The mean gestational age at birth was 31±5.04 weeks. Survival rate for one or both of the twins was 83% and 66.6%, respectively. In cases with a diagnosis of TTTS and an amniodrainage was performed after 25 weeks of gestation (n=5 cases), both of the twins survived. In the contrary, in 4 of the cases diagnosed between 14 to 22 weeks of gestation, both of the twins in 2 cases, and one of the twins in one case were lost following the amniodrainage procedure. CONCLUSION(s): Serial amniodrainage is an effective method of treatment in TTTS. However in cases at an earlier gestational age, the efficacy of the procedure is poor. Intrauterine laser coagulation may be the primary choice in such cases.