RARE SYNDROME THAT THREATENED IDENTICAL GIRLS WHO SHARED A PLACENTA
TWIN-to-twin transfusion syndrome is a rare and serious condition.
Occurring when identical twins share a placenta, abnormal blood vessel connections form and allow an uneven flow between the babies.
One twin – the donor – becomes dehydrated and the other – the recipient – develops high blood pressure, produces too much urine and overfills the amniotic sac.
It affects their growth and the excess fluid can cause the recipient’s heart to fail.
Without treatment, the condition can be fatal for both twins.
Laser surgery to save one or both is performed in the womb under local anaesthetic. The operation can save about 60 per cent of affected babies.
A needle is inserted through the maternal abdominal wall and guided by ultrasound into the amniotic sac of the recipient twin. It is then removed and a fetoscope with a thin fibre to carry the laser energy inserted.
After surgery, the excess fluid in the recipient’s sac is removed to achieve a normal volume and relieve the pressure on that twin.
The condition occurs in about 15 per cent of identical twins, usually starting around week 16 of the pregnancy.
If it is not detected until after week 25, doctors will consider an emergency Caesarian to deliver both the babies.