[The initial results of fetoscopic laser treatment for severe second trimester twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome in the Netherlands are comparable to international results].
OBJECTIVE
Evaluation of the initial results of selective fetoscopic laser coagulation of placental blood vessels for severe second-trimester twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome in the Netherlands.


METHODS
Prospective cohort study.


METHODS
Between August 2000 and December 31, 2002, 49 patients were included with severe second-trimester twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome. Treatment took place in the Leiden University Medical Centre and consisted of selective fetoscopic laser coagulation of anastomoses along the vascular equator on the placental surface. Follow-up was complete until six weeks after delivery.


RESULTS
Median gestational age was 20 weeks at fetoscopy and 34 weeks at birth. Perinatal survival rate was 65% (64/98). The treatment resulted in at least one surviving child in 80% of pregnancies.


CONCLUSIONS
The results of fetoscopic laser treatment for severe second-trimester twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome in the Netherlands are similar to the recent results in specialised foreign centres.
Middeldorp
J M
JM
Afd. Verloskunde, Leids Universitair Medisch Centrum, Postbus 9600, 2300 RC Leiden. j.m.middeldorp@lumc.nl
Klumper
F J
FJ
Oepkes
D
D
Lopriore
E
E
Kanhai
H H
HH
Vandenbussche
F P
FP
D015331:Cohort Studies; D005260:Female; D005315:Fetal Diseases / Q000401:mortality / Q000601:surgery*; D005330:Fetofetal Transfusion / Q000401:mortality / Q000601:surgery*; D005332:Fetoscopy / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D017075:Laser Coagulation / Q000379:methods*; D010920:Placenta / Q000098:blood supply / Q000601:surgery*; D011247:Pregnancy; D011262:Pregnancy Trimester, Second; D011446:Prospective Studies; D015996:Survival Rate; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014427:Twins