twin-to-twin transfusion

Question 1

what causes twin-to-twin transfusion

Answer 1

anastomoses of umbilical vessels between the two foetuses in the placenta of monochorionic twins

Question 2

risks to the twin in twin-to-twin transfusion

Answer 2

both foetuses are at risk of heart failure
- donor suffers high output cardiac failure
- recipient suffers fluid overload

Question 3

management of twin-to-twin transfusion

Answer 3

available at specialist centres
- before 26 weeks- fetoscopic laser ablation
- > 26 weeks- amnioreduction/septostomy
- deliver 34-36 weeks