FOR THE EFFECTIVE MONITORING OF TWINS , AND THE DIAGNOSIS OF ANY COMPLICATIONS , THE RIGHT TECHNOLOGIES MUST BE USED FROM THE VERY START .
D I S S E C T I N G B U S I N E S S to determine the vascular connections in an MCDA twin pregnancy but , up until now , it is rarely examined prenatally . He argues , however , that the detection and characterisation of placental anastomoses ( a connection between two structures ) within the angioarchitecture could be key to identifying conditions such as TTTS or other risks .
When examining the placental vessels through the different colour Doppler modalities the results varied . While traditional CDI was impacted by sonographic ‘ noise ’, Advanced Dynamic Flow ( ADF ), which combined a broadband frequency with a high frame rate , allowed for a more precise depiction of blood circulation , and blood flow to be characterised . With SMI and ADF , Prof . Lees was able to view microscopic blood flow , suggesting its potential for identifying risk earlier in the future .
Overall , the study concluded that a ‘ multifilter ’ approach to angioarchitecture sonographic examination ( using different colour Doppler techniques ) is of fundamental assistance when characterising anastomoses and determining vascular equator in twin MC placentas .
The benefits of early identification
According to guidance as soon as there are signs that TTTS has progressed , the mother will be referred to their regional foetal medicine unit to discuss treatment options . Whilst the options available will depend on the stage of pregnancy , Foetoscopic Laser Ablation is a common , minimally invasive
FOR THE EFFECTIVE MONITORING OF TWINS , AND THE DIAGNOSIS OF ANY COMPLICATIONS , THE RIGHT TECHNOLOGIES MUST BE USED FROM THE VERY START .
treatment . This procedure focuses on the connections in the placenta causing TTTS , and methodically treats them using a laser .
Innovation within the ultrasound space , however , is providing alternative treatment options . In 2021 , doctors at Queen Charlotte ’ s and Chelsea Hospital , Institute for Cancer Research and Imperial College London , were the world ’ s first to complete a successful non-invasive procedure using highintensity focused ultrasound ( HIFU ) energy to safely treat a case .
For the effective monitoring of twins , and the diagnosis of any complications , the right technologies must be used from the very start i . e . using ultrasound equipment that can deliver crystal-clear images with enhanced resolution . This is important in multiple pregnancies and women ’ s health in general . Clearer images mean faster examination times and a more confident diagnosis for patients , leading to reduced anxiety and better outcomes . �
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