How twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome is treated depends on the severity of the condition and its effects on the babies. In many cases, it is closely monitored with ultrasounds and office visits, and the mother can continue the pregnancy with no additional interventions.
When one or both twins are struggling to develop and survive because of the condition—or if there are indications it could cause the mother to go into labor too soon—surgery may be necessary.
This surgery is performed on the babies in utero. It utilizes an endoscope and laser to perform an ablation, removing the additional blood vessels that are causing the twin-to-twin transfusion. This is a minimally invasive procedure.
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Reasons to Hire a Birth Injury Attorney
A medical malpractice attorney who represents families with birth injury claims in your state will know how this process works, when the applicable deadlines fall, and the criteria you must meet to move forward with your claim.
Medical malpractice birth injury lawyers work based on contingent fees. They generally provide complimentary case reviews and use their own resources to cover the cost of their client’s investigation, claims process, and settlement negotiations.
If they must take the case to trial, their client pays nothing out of pocket for this, either. Instead, they front the costs and recover their attorney’s fees from the payout they secure in their client’s case.
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Understanding Twin-to-Twin Transfusion Syndrome
Twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS) only occurs with identical twins or other multiples who share the same placenta. The blood vessels that feed the placenta and supply the babies with oxygenated blood and nutrients do not develop evenly, leaving one baby getting the majority of the fresh, nutrient-dense blood needed for proper growth and development.
The twin who gets the additional blood flow may develop concerns with their heart and kidneys, while the other may develop organ failure due to malnourishment. This condition is progressive and usually develops between 15 and 26 weeks of pregnancy.
When the difference between blood flow to each twin is minimal, observation may be enough to ensure the babies continue to meet growth and development goals until they can be safely delivered. In more serious cases, early delivery or fetal surgery may be necessary.
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Outcomes in Twin-to-Twin Transfusion Syndrome
Twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome can trigger preterm labor, even in pregnancies that only require the doctor to monitor them with regular ultrasounds. This is important because of the serious risks of preterm labor and premature delivery. Premature babies face a wide variety of risks, including:
- Cerebral palsy
- Intellectual disabilities
- Learning disabilities
- Vision and hearing loss
- Behavioral concerns
- Other chronic health issues include respiratory, digestive, and renal issues
It is essential that the babies stay in the womb long enough to be able to breathe and grow in the outside world. This is especially a concern for the smaller, weaker baby who was receiving fewer nutrients.
When twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome is serious but goes undiagnosed, the mother could go into labor too early, one or both babies could die in utero, or they may pass away after birth. In some cases, one or both babies survives with lasting injuries related to the condition.
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Twin-to-Twin Transfusion Syndrome Can Worsen as a Result of Medical Malpractice
While there is no way to prevent twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome, the doctor monitoring your pregnancy should have screened for it and checked on ultrasounds to determine if your babies were growing at similar rates. Managing a twin pregnancy comes with its own specific risks, and your doctor should have known to look for signs of this condition.
If the doctor failed to identify the concerns with your twins and they never received a diagnosis, monitoring, or treatment, this may be medical negligence. If so, you could hold the doctor and hospital responsible for your child or children’s injuries.
Connect with the Team from the Birth Injury Lawyers Group to Get Help Today
At the Birth Injury Lawyers Group, our team will provide a free assessment of your rights and legal options based on the strength of your potential case. We will discuss your children’s injuries with you and answer your questions about moving forward with legal action. Call (800) 222-9529 now to reach our team.
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