Differences in myocardial deformation between donor and recipient in twin-twin transfusion syndrome using vector velocity imaging

Abstract

Objective To investigate the differences in myocardial deformation between donor and recipient in twin-twin transfusion syndrome(TTTS) using vector velocity imaging( VVI). Methods Digital dynamic two-dimensional four chamber views were interrogated off-line using VVI software. Global longitudinal strain(S) , systolic strain rate(SRs) and diastolic strain rate(SRd) were measured in the left ventricles(LV) and right ventricles (RV) of 30 fetal pairs with TTTS and compared to 30 gestational age-matched normal controls. Results Donor LV-SRs was higher, while donor RV-SRd was significantly lower than controls. Recipient S, SRs and SRd were significantly lower for both LV and RV in comparison to controls. Conclusions In TTTS,donor LV systolic function is hyperdynamic while the RV diastolic function is low. Recipient RV and LV are both globally depressed with systolic and diastolic dysfunction. Key words: Ultrasonography; Fetofetal transfusion; Ventricular function