Neonatal morbidity in twin-twin transfusion syndrome

Abstract

Twin-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS) is a severe complication of monochorionic twin pregnancies associated with high perinatal mortality and morbidity rates. Management in TTTS is a major challenge for obstetricians and neonatologists. Twins which are often born prematurely and may suffer from typical conditions associated with prematurity. In addition, surviving twins with TTTS are at increased risk for other complications including neurological, cardiovascular, renal and hematologic morbidity. Rare complications such as hypoxic-ischemic lesions to limbs or intestines and amniotic band syndrome have also been reported in TTTS survivors. This review focuses on the neonatal and pediatric mortality and morbidity in TTTS survivors, with special emphasis on the long-term neurodevelopmental outcome.