Perinatal survival following preferential sequential selective laser surgery for twin-twin transfusion syndrome

Abstract

Objective. To describe our experience with preferential use of sequential selective laser photocoagulation of communicating vessels (SQLPCV) in women with twin-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS).

Methods. Women with TTTS received treatment using the SQLPCV technique whenever possible. SQLPCV mandates ablation of all donor-to-recipient arteriovenous communications first, in comparison to the standard non-sequential selective technique.

Results. Of 99 consecutive women treated, 64 received SQLPCV. Overall survival of one or both twins was 91% and dual survival was 72%. Higher dual survival rates (80 vs. 57%, p = 0.0317) and donor survival rates (83 vs. 63%, p = 0.0489) were noted in the SQLPCV group. Multivariable logistic regression demonstrated that the SQLPCV technique was highly associated with dual survivorship (OR = 4.64 [1.57–13.74], p = 0.0056), when controlling for gestational age at surgery, duration of laser treatment and number of anastomoses lasered. Neither Quintero stage, placental location, preoperative discordance prior to surgery, nor preoperative cervical length contributed to this equation. The SQLPCV technique was also associated with donor survivorship (OR = 4.43 [1.44–13.67], p = 0.0095), when controlling for the same covariates.

Conclusion. Treatment of TTTS via SQLPCV technique was associated with higher dual survival and donor twin survival rates as compared to standard SLPCV.

Keywords:

• Laser surgery
• operative fetoscopy
• twin-twin transfusion syndrome

Acknowledgements

The authors would like to acknowledge Terri Maitino, R.N. for obtaining the outcome data used in this study, and Larisa Yedigarova, M.D., Ph.D., for her oversight of the protocol with the local investigational review board.