Twin-twin transfusion syndrome: the challenge of etiology-based management decisions.

Abstract

Studies published in the past year have attempted to model the pathophysiology of the twin-twin transfusion syndrome and also to establish the minimal diagnostic criteria for the condition. Many papers focused on treatment regimens and their sequelae. Aggressive treatment with serial amnioreduction continues to predominate, and appears to be more successful than conservative medical management, whereas selective feticide is reserved for cases that fail to respond to amnioreduction. Small series utilizing laser ablation and amniotic septostomy appeared; with laser proponents suggesting that their approach may carry a lower risk of neurological sequelae. Progress in ultrasound and Doppler techniques has begun to yield earlier and better diagnostic approaches which, coupled with an awareness of the possible anastomotic configurations, may allow for the selection of the management protocol most likely to succeed in each individual case.