What is a Twin-to-Twin Transfusion Syndrome (TTTS)?
Twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome is a rare complication that develops in up to 15% (Y. Ville, 2005) of identical twin pregnancies when the babies share a common placenta. It may begin in the second or third trimester. This phenomenon is related to an abnormality in the placenta itself. Communicating blood vessels on the placenta cause a disproportionate flow of blood between the twins. One baby donates more blood to the other and becomes smaller, or ‘stuck’. The other twin, receiving extra blood, becomes larger and is called the ‘recipient’. The health of both babies is at risk. The ‘donor’ twin has less blood flow which leads to poor growth and decreased blood flow to the brain and kidneys. The ‘recipient’ twin has increased blood flow that may result in cardiac and neurological problems. The cause of TTTS is unknown. What testing is recommended during the pregnancy? Serial ultrasounds are recommended to monitor the health of both babies. An amniocentesis is offered to assess the kar
Twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome is a rare complication that develops in up to 15% (Y. Ville, 2005) of identical twin pregnancies when the babies share a common placenta. It may begin in the second or third trimester. This phenomenon is related to an abnormality in the placenta itself. Communicating blood vessels on the placenta cause a disproportionate flow of blood between the twins. One baby donates more blood to the other and becomes smaller, or ‘stuck’. The other twin, receiving extra blood, becomes larger and is called the ‘recipient’. The health of both babies is at risk. The ‘donor’ twin has less blood flow which leads to poor growth and decreased blood flow to the brain and kidneys. The ‘recipient’ twin has increased blood flow that may result in cardiac and neurological problems. The cause of TTTS is unknown. What testing is recommended during the pregnancy? Serial ultrasounds are recommended to monitor the health of both babies. An amniocentesis is offered to assess the kar
