Sep 2 2010
Texas Children's Fetal Center, a leading medical facility in the U.S., has successfully performed its 200th twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS) laser ablation procedure. Drs. Anthony Johnson and Ken Moise at the Fetal Center performed the laser surgery.
A number of treatment options, including laser ablation, selective reduction, microseptostomy and amnioreduction, were used to rectify the twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome. Innovative research and technology revealed that laser ablation provides an optimum solution to improve the outcome of complex twin pregnancies. The operational time taken for performing the laser ablation procedure is less than two hours and involves a small incision. The survival rate of one or both the infants is more than 80%.
The risk of developing TTTS is high in twin pregnancies with single placenta. The pregnant mothers must have ultrasounds every 15 days from the fourth month of pregnancy and must continue until the delivery time to detect any difference in the placenta’s fluid levels. If TTTS is detected, then the mother must consult a maternal-fetal medicine specialist immediately.
Dr. Johnson stated that the center is delighted to perform the 200th laser ablation surgery in less than four years, and marks a significant milestone for the hospital.
Source: http://www.texaschildrens.org