Residual anastomoses in twin-twin transfusion syndrome after laser: the Solomon randomized trial

Femke Slaghekke*, Liesbeth Lewi, Johanna M Middeldorp, Anne Sophie Weingertner, Frans J Klumper, Philip Dekoninck, Roland Devlieger, Mariano M Lanna, Jan Deprest, Romain Favre, Dick Oepkes, Enrico Lopriore

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticleAcademicpeer-review

85 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: Residual anastomoses after fetoscopic laser surgery for twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS) may lead to severe postoperative complications, including recurrent TTTS and twin anemia-polycythemia sequence (TAPS). A novel technique (Solomon technique) using laser coagulation of the entire vascular equator was recently investigated in a randomized controlled trial (Solomon trial) and compared with the Standard selective laser technique. The aim of this secondary analysis was to evaluate the occurrence and characteristics of residual anastomoses in placentas included in the Solomon trial.

STUDY DESIGN: International multicenter randomized controlled trial in TTTS, randomized 1:1 ratio to either the Solomon laser technique or Standard laser technique. At time of laser, surgeons recorded whether they considered the procedure to be complete. Placental dye injection was performed after birth in the participating centers to evaluate the presence of residual anastomoses.

RESULTS: A total of 151 placentas were included in the study. The percentage of placentas with residual anastomoses in the Solomon group and Standard group was 19% (14/74) and 34% (26/77), respectively (P = .04). The percentage of placentas with residual anastomoses in the subgroup of cases where the procedure was recorded as complete was 8/65 (12%) and 22/69 (32%) in the Solomon group and Standard group, respectively (P < .01).

CONCLUSION: The Solomon laser technique reduces the risk of residual anastomoses. However, careful follow-up remains essential also after the Solomon technique, as complete dichorionization is not always achieved.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)285.e1-285.e7
JournalAmerican Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology
Volume211
Issue number3
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Sept 2014
Externally publishedYes

Bibliographical note

Copyright © 2014 Mosby, Inc. All rights reserved.

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Residual anastomoses in twin-twin transfusion syndrome after laser: the Solomon randomized trial'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this