Disentanglement of Discordant Monochorionic Monoamniotic Twins in a Triplet Pregnancy: An Innovative Approach Utilizing Fetoscopic Laser Coagulation with Micro-Laparoscopic Scissor Dissection

Walker, M.; Paek, Bettina

doi:10.1159/000472151

Cited by 1 publication

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“…However, this technique is accompanied by a significant increase in instrument diameter. Another different technique for cord transection is discussed by Kunzier et al [15] and Walker et al [16]. They describe the transection of the umbilical cord by a 5 Fr miniature laparoscopic scissor after fetoscopic cord coagulation in 1 case of monoamniotic twins in a triplet pregnancy, which also requires a 3.8 mm insertion instead of the 3.3 mm one and a sort of abutment to prevent free floating of the cord [15,16].…”

Section: Discussionmentioning

confidence: 99%

A Modified Technique for Cord Transection in Monochorionic Monoamniotic Twin Pregnancies

Greimel¹,

Csapó²,

Haeusler³

et al. 2018

Fetal Diagn Ther

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Monochorionic monoamniotic (MA) twins are at increased risk for intrauterine demise (IUD) and discordant anomalies. Selective feticide by cord occlusion may be an option in case of unfavorable discordant problems. In MA pregnancies, however, the surviving co-twin still remains at serious risk for IUD due to progressive cord entanglement. Cord transection has therefore been recommended to protect the survivor. This procedure may turn out to be difficult. We herein describe a modified fetoscopic technique for laser transection using a grasping forceps. We present technical details and clinical outcome in 2 cases of cord transection: one following cord occlusion and the other following spontaneous IUD. Cord transection was performed at 19 and 26 weeks gestation, respectively. A 3 Fr grasping forceps with a working length of 35 cm was used for controlled manipulation of the umbilical cord during transection. There were no procedure-related complications and both surviving co-twins had favorable neonatal outcome. Cord transection using a grasping forceps facilitates easy and precise fetoscopic release of the umbilical cord. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report on post mortem cord transection after spontaneous single IUD with favorable outcome for the survivor.

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