title: Preoperative planning with magnetic resonance imaging and computerized volume rendering in twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome.
abstract: Our purpose was to illustrate the feasibility of preoperative planning with magnetic resonance imaging, 3-dimensional reconstruction, and volume-rendering techniques in twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome treated by endoscopic laser ablation of communicating vessels. After ultrasonographic determination of the syndrome and the indications for intervention, 2 patients with an anterior placenta underwent magnetic resonance imaging without the need for maternal or fetal sedation. Raw image data were downloaded into a desktop computer and manipulated with 3-dimensional reconstruction, volume rendering, and surgical navigation software. In both patients a virtual rendering of the fetuses, placenta, and uterus could be manipulated to expose all sides, demonstrate the location of the intertwin membrane, and plan the point of entry and curve of the endoscopic instruments. Preoperative planning and virtual surgical navigation in fetal surgery are now possible, as a result of shorter magnetic resonance imaging acquisition times and volume-rendering software. In this manner an entire virtual endoscopic fetal operation can be performed and fine-tuned before the actual procedure is to take place.
authors.affiliation: Program in Fetal Medicine, Division of Pediatric Surgery, Brown Medical School, 2 Dudley St., Providence, RI 02905, USA. François_Luks@brown.edu
authors.forename: F I
authors.initials: FI
authors.lastname: Luks
authors.forename: S R
authors.initials: SR
authors.lastname: Carr
authors.forename: B
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Ponte
authors.forename: J M
authors.initials: JM
authors.lastname: Rogg
authors.forename: T F
authors.initials: TF
authors.lastname: Tracy
mesh_terms: D004724:Endoscopy; D005260:Female; D005330:Fetofetal Transfusion / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000473:pathology / Q000601:surgery*; D005333:Fetus / Q000033:anatomy & histology; D006801:Humans; D007091:Image Processing, Computer-Assisted; D053685:Laser Therapy; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging; D013513:Obstetric Surgical Procedures / Q000379:methods*; D010920:Placenta / Q000473:pathology; D011247:Pregnancy; D011272:Pregnancy, Multiple; D014463:Ultrasonography; D014584:User-Computer Interface; D014599:Uterus / Q000473:pathology