Finding Earlier Warning Signs in Monochorionic Twin Pregnancies
Updated: Aug 27
Can doctors identify which monochorionic twin pregnancies are most at risk before serious complications develop?
That question was at the centre of the OMMIT - Optimal Management of Monochorionic Twins - research programme.
Researchers examined 177 monochorionic-diamniotic twin pregnancies, looking at measurements taken during first-trimester ultrasound scans alongside biomarkers found in maternal blood.
The study found that differences between the twins in nuchal translucency and crown-rump length were associated with an increased risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes. Twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome was also associated with increased nuchal translucency discordance and lower levels of placental growth factor.
These findings were not intended to create an immediate clinical screening test. Instead, they identified promising factors that could contribute to better prediction models when evaluated in larger prospective studies.
The broader OMMIT programme was funded by The Richard and Jack Wiseman Trust, and research fellow Fiona Mackie was also supported by the Trust.
Improving prediction is a key part of improving TTTS care: the better clinicians understand which pregnancies are at greatest risk, the more effectively specialist monitoring and treatment can be targeted.
Comments