What is TTTS?
*TTTS occurs about 15 percent of the time among identical twins. Fraternal twins are not at risk for this syndrome because they do not share a placenta.
*TTTS is a random event that cannot be prevented by doing or not doing any specific thing. It is not a genetic disorder nor is it a hereditary condition.
How is TTTS diagnosed?
-Marked difference in the size of fetuses of the same gender
-Difference in size between the two amniotic sacs
-Difference in size of the umbilical cords
-A single placenta
-Evidence of fluid build up in the skin of either fetus
-Findings of congestive heart failure in the recipient twin
-Polyhydraminos (excess amniotic fluid) in the recipient twin
-Oligohydraminos (decreased or too little amniotic fluid) in the donor twin
*What are the potential complications of TTTS?
-Premature labor either due to ruptured membranes or induction
-Respiratory, digestive, heart, or brain defects in the recipient twin because of excess fluids
-Donor twin developing anemia
-Fetal demise/death
*What treatment options are available for TTTS?
-Up until recently twin to twin transfusion syndrome has claimed the life of both babies, but technology has brought about two new treatment options for this condition.
-The use of amniocentesis to drain off excess fluid appears to improve the blood flow in the placenta and reduce the risk of preterm labor. Amniocentesis can save approximately 60% of affected babies.
- Laser surgery can also be used to seal off the connection between the blood vessels and appears to save 60% of both affected babies. and 90% of atleast one.
- Delivery is also an option if your healthcare provider determines the twins’ lungs have reached maturity.
We have created this blog because countless people that we have never even met have been praying for our baby girls by name, and we wanted to be able to keep all of you updated the best way we know how. As you lift our girls up in prayer, please familiarize yourself with this awful disease and remember other TTTS victims in your prayers as well.
