Twin to Twin Transfusion Syndrome (TTTS)

Which therapy is right for me?

TTTS Management | Do I need treatment for TTTS? | What are the management options? | Which therapy is right for me?

Choosing the management option most appropriate for you is a challenging task. As parents, your choice is very individual and there is no "right" or "wrong" decision. It is important to consider all of your options before making a management decision. For example, an initial amnioreduction removes the necessary amniotic fluid pocket for successful laser therapy and may, therefore, limit or delay the possibility for definitive treatment. The following table gives you an overview of the typical procedure-related risks and outcomes.

Acute previable TTTS management options and outcome
Management plan	Both survive	One survives	Brain injury	Both die	Procedural risk
F = fetal; M = maternal
Do nothing, observe	<5%	<30%	50%	70%	2-5% maternal
Pregnancy termination	0	0	-	100%	1-2% maternal
Serial amniodrainage	42%	60%	20%	40%	4% F, procedure
Umbilical cord ligation	0	95%	4-6%	5%	10% F, 1-2% M
Laser coagulation	60%	82%	10%	18%	10% F, 1-2% M

This page was last updated on: October 3, 2007.

For detailed assessment, call the Center for Advanced Fetal Care at
1-888-349-8946 (FIX-TWIN).