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Am J Perinatol 2014; 31(S 01): S47-S50
DOI: 10.1055/s-0034-1376313
Review Article
Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

The Problem of Preterm Delivery after Laser Surgery

Ramesha Papanna
1   Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, UT Health School of Medicine, Houston, Texas
2   The Texas Fetal Center, Children's Memorial Hermann Hospital, Houston, Texas
› Author Affiliations
Further Information

Publication History

30 March 2014

01 April 2014

Publication Date:
23 May 2014 (online)

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Abstract

Preterm birth after fetoscopic laser surgery for twin-twin transfusion continues to be a major challenge despite improved survival rates. The risk factors for the complications have been identified, which include preterm premature rupture of membranes, cervical length shortening, larger cannula diameter, amnioinfusion, complicated procedure, and severe disease. The interventions to prevent preterm birth such as cervical cerclage for short cervix and collagen plug placement have not been successful. Further understanding of the pathophysiology is urgently needed to identify newer methods to prevent preterm birth.

Keywords

preterm birth - premature rupture of membranes - twin-twin transfusion syndrome - cervical length shortening
 

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