Successful outcome after serial amnioreductions in triplet fetofetal transfusion syndrome

Obstet Gynecol. 2003 May;101(5 Pt 2):1107-10. doi: 10.1016/s0029-7844(02)02372-4.

Abstract

Background: Triplet fetofetal transfusion is an extremely rare complication with high perinatal mortality. Its rarity does not allow any prospective randomized study on various interventional methods to be conducted.

Case: We report one case of triplet fetofetal transfusion syndrome with survival of all three fetuses. Two were donor fetuses, and one was the recipient fetus. Serial amnioreductions were performed at 22, 24, and 26 weeks' gestation to relieve symptomatic polyhydramnios. Premature rupture of membranes occurred at 27 weeks and cesarean delivery was performed. All three babies were discharged home by 4 months of age, and all had normal neurological development when assessed at 6 months of age.

Conclusion: The option of serial amnioreduction, with the anticipation and preparation for delivery at around 28 weeks, should be seriously considered when triplet fetofetal transfusion syndrome is encountered.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Amniocentesis
  • Cesarean Section
  • Female
  • Fetal Diseases / diagnosis
  • Fetal Diseases / therapy
  • Fetal Membranes, Premature Rupture
  • Fetofetal Transfusion / diagnosis
  • Fetofetal Transfusion / therapy*
  • Humans
  • Polyhydramnios / etiology
  • Polyhydramnios / therapy
  • Pregnancy
  • Pregnancy Outcome
  • Pregnancy Trimester, Second
  • Triplets*