Doppler evidence of improved fetoplacental hemodynamics following amnioreduction in the stuck twin phenomenon.
BACKGROUND
Doppler ultrasound of the umbilical cord has been used to assess stuck twin pregnancies, with variable results. We describe a case of immediate improvement in the umbilical artery velocimetry of a stuck twin following amnioreduction.


METHODS
Pregnancy complicated by the stuck twin phenomenon was managed by serial amnioreductions. Initial improvement was followed by progressive evidence of hydrops in the smaller, stuck twin. Absent diastolic flow was corrected immediately by further amnioreduction; subsequently the evidence of hydrops resolved.


CONCLUSIONS
Amnioreduction may be associated with a measurable improvement in fetoplacental hemodynamics in the stuck twin phenomenon as assessed by Doppler ultrasound.
Smith
J F
JF
Mountain States Maternal Fetal Medicine St. Joseph Hospital, Denver, Colorado, USA. smithmfm@aol.com
Pesterfield
W
W
Day
L D
LD
Jones
R O
RO
D000328:Adult; D000653:Amniotic Fluid; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D021041:Placental Circulation; D011247:Pregnancy; D011248:Pregnancy Complications / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000628:therapy*; D011272:Pregnancy, Multiple; D014427:Twins; D016216:Ultrasonography, Prenatal; D014470:Umbilical Cord / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging