Identical Twins

Twin to twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS)

Twin to twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS)

The following is a very simple description of Twin to twin transfusion.

For a more detailed explanation I would visit one of the following sites:

The Twin to Twin Transfusion Syndrome Foundation

Twin2twin

Brief description of Twin to Twin Transfusion Sydndrome (TTTS)

The cause of Twin to Twin transfusion syndrome is not known. Twin to twin transfusion syndrome is not known to be hereditary or genetic.

Twin to Twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS) can affect identical twin pregnancy where the fetuses share a common placenta (called monochorianic).

Twin to twin transfusion syndrome has a high mortality rate - approximately 60-100% mortality rate.

Sharing a common placenta means that the twin fetuses can begin to share blood circulation. Each fetus uses its own side of the placenta, the placenta blood vessels connecting the twins allow blood to pass from one twin to the other twin. Depending on the amount of blood vessels connecting them, this can mean that the blood is not shared equally, blood is transferred from “the donor” to the other twin “the recipient”.

The effect of Twin to Twin transfusion syndrome

The donor to have less blood, which reduces the donor twins development and growth, and it affects it urinary output, leading to lower than normal amniotic fluid.

The increased volume of blood to the recipient puts a strain on the twin’s heart which can lead to heart failure. The higher than normal urinary output can also lead to excessive amniotic fluid.

Twin to twin transfusion syndrome in early twin pregnancy (before 26 weeks) can cause both twin fetuses to die or severe disabilities.

Twin to twin transfusion syndrome if happening after 26 weeks can mean that the fetuses have a greater chance of survival without severe disability.

Treatment for Twin to twin transfusion syndrome

Research into twin to twin transfusion syndrome is ongoing and recommended treatments rapidly change.

Speak to your obstetrician for the most up to date twin to twin transfusion treatment information.

One treatment that I came across on the internet (although there is no formal clinical trials supporting the treatment - so you should ask your obstetrician for their view) was that some doctors recommend complete bed rest for mothers of twin pregnancy coupled with high intakes of protein from protein shakes. There is no common agreement for why this might be of benefit. So again consult your obstetrician for their view.