1
|
Mao B, Chen L. Pregnancy outcomes of foetal reduction from twin to singleton gestation compared to ongoing twin gestations: a systematic review and meta-analysis. J OBSTET GYNAECOL 2024; 44:2371955. [PMID: 38973678 DOI: 10.1080/01443615.2024.2371955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2024] [Indexed: 07/09/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Foetal reduction, which involves selectively terminating one or more foetuses in a multiple gestation pregnancy, has become more common. This systematic review and meta-analysis aims to assess and compare pregnancy outcomes of foetal reduction from twin to singleton gestation to ongoing twin gestations. METHODS A comprehensive search of electronic databases (MEDLINE, EMbase, Cochrane Library, CINAHL and PsycINFO) was done for studies published until 15 April 2023. The outcomes analysed included gestational diabetes mellitus (DM), hypertension, caesarean delivery, foetal loss, perinatal death, preterm birth (PTB), intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), preterm prelabour rupture of membranes (PPROM) and birth weight. RESULTS A total of 13 studies comprising 1241 cases of twin to singleton foetal reduction gestation were compared to 20,693 ongoing twin gestations. Our findings indicate that foetal reduction was associated with a significantly lower risk of developing maternal gestational DM (odds ratio [OR] = 0.40, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.27-0.59) and hypertension (OR = 0.36, 95% CI 0.23-0.57) compared to the control group. Incidence rate of caesarean delivery (OR = 0.65, 95% CI 0.53-0.81) after foetal reduction was significantly lower compared to ongoing twin gestations. There was a 63% lower chance of PTB before 37 weeks of pregnancy. However, there was no significant association between foetal reduction and outcomes such as foetal loss, perinatal death, IUGR and PPROM. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest that foetal twin to singleton reduction entails potential benefits as compared to ongoing twin gestations. Further well planned studies are needed to explore underlying mechanisms to understanding of the outcomes associated with foetal reduction procedures and inform clinical decision-making for pregnant individuals and healthcare providers alike.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bijun Mao
- Reproductive Medicine Centre, Huzhou Maternity & Child Health Care Hospital, Huzhou City, China
| | - Li Chen
- Reproductive Medicine Centre, Huzhou Maternity & Child Health Care Hospital, Huzhou City, China
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Paudel S, Dahal P, Pant PR, Subedi N. Trans-abdominal fetal reduction in higher order multiple pregnancies: a pioneer cohort retrospective study in Nepal. Ann Med Surg (Lond) 2024; 86:3887-3892. [PMID: 38989206 PMCID: PMC11230800 DOI: 10.1097/ms9.0000000000002252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 05/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective To share the initial experience of trans-abdominal multifetal pregnancy reduction (MFPR) in Nepal. Method The procedure was performed in 108 patients in a private hospital over a period of 3 years. Under ultrasound guidance, intracardiac injection of 0.2-3.0 ml of 15% w/v (2 mEq/ml) potassium chloride (KCl) was administered via trans-abdominal route. Results A total of 108 fetal reduction procedures were carried out at the seventh to fifteenth weeks of gestation, a maximum of 44 (40.7%) of which were done at the ninth to tenth weeks of gestation. A total of 123 fetuses were reduced. Out of total 108 multifetal pregnancies, 96 (88.8%) were due to in-vitro fertilization (IVF). Eighty-five pregnancies (78.7%) underwent reduction from triplet to twin. The second-time reduction was needed in five cases. Two attempts (in the same sitting) were required in three cases. The inadvertent demise of the second fetus was noted in three cases of dichorionic tri-amniotic triplet pregnancy. Conclusion Ultrasound-guided trans-abdominal fetal reduction performed between the seventh and twelfth weeks of gestation is safe and effective.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sharma Paudel
- Department of Radiology and Imaging, Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital and Consultant Radiologist at Grande International Hospital
| | | | - Padam Raj Pant
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital and Consultant Gynecologist at Grande International Hospital, Kathmandu, Nepal
| | - Nilam Subedi
- Obstetric and Gynecology, Grande International Hospital
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Jernman RM, Rissanen ARS, Stefanovic V. The outcome of reduced and non-reduced triplet pregnancies managed in a tertiary hospital during a 15-year-period - a retrospective cohort study. J Perinat Med 2024; 52:361-368. [PMID: 38421237 DOI: 10.1515/jpm-2023-0538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Triplet pregnancies involve several complications, the most important being prematurity as virtually all triplets are born preterm. We conducted this study to compare the outcomes of reduced vs. non-reduced triplet pregnancies managed in the largest tertiary hospital in Finland. METHODS This was a retrospective cohort study in the Helsinki University Hospital during 2006-2020. Data on the pregnancies, parturients and newborns were collected from patient records. The fetal number, chorionicity and amnionicity were defined in first-trimester ultrasound screening. The main outcome measures were perinatal and neonatal mortality of non-reduced triplets, compared to twins and singletons selectively reduced of triplet pregnancies. RESULTS There were 57 initially triplet pregnancies and 35 of these continued as non-reduced triplets and resulted in the delivery of 104 liveborn children. The remaining 22 cases were spontaneously or medically reduced to twins (9) or singletons (13). Most (54.4 %) triplet pregnancies were spontaneous. There were no significant differences in gestational age at delivery between triplets (mean 33+0, median 34+0) and those reduced to twins (mean 32+5, median 36+0). The survival at one week of age was higher for triplets compared to twins (p<0.00001). CONCLUSIONS Most pregnancies continued as non-reduced triplets, which were born at a similar gestational age but with a significantly higher liveborn rate compared to those reduced to twins. There were no early neonatal deaths among cases reduced to singletons. Prematurity was the greatest concern for multiples in this cohort, whereas the small numbers may explain the lack of difference in gestational age between these groups.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Riina Maria Jernman
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fetomaternal Medical Center, 159841 University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital , Helsinki, Finland
| | | | - Vedran Stefanovic
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fetomaternal Medical Center, 159841 University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital , Helsinki, Finland
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Alteri A, Arroyo G, Baccino G, Craciunas L, De Geyter C, Ebner T, Koleva M, Kordic K, Mcheik S, Mertes H, Pavicic Baldani D, Rodriguez-Wallberg KA, Rugescu I, Santos-Ribeiro S, Tilleman K, Woodward B, Vermeulen N, Veleva Z. ESHRE guideline: number of embryos to transfer during IVF/ICSI†. Hum Reprod 2024; 39:647-657. [PMID: 38364208 PMCID: PMC10988112 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deae010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2024] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Which clinical and embryological factors should be considered to apply double embryo transfer (DET) instead of elective single embryo transfer (eSET)? SUMMARY ANSWER No clinical or embryological factor per se justifies a recommendation of DET instead of eSET in IVF/ICSI. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY DET is correlated with a higher rate of multiple pregnancy, leading to a subsequent increase in complications for both mother and babies. These complications include preterm birth, low birthweight, and other perinatal adverse outcomes. To mitigate the risks associated with multiple pregnancy, eSET is recommended by international and national professional organizations as the preferred approach in ART. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION The guideline was developed according to the structured methodology for development and update of ESHRE guidelines. Literature searches were performed in PUBMED/MEDLINE and Cochrane databases, and relevant papers published up to May 2023, written in English, were included. Live birth rate, cumulative live birth rate, and multiple pregnancy rate were considered as critical outcomes. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Based on the collected evidence, recommendations were discussed until a consensus was reached within the Guideline Development Group (GDG). A stakeholder review was organized after the guideline draft was finalized. The final version was approved by the GDG and the ESHRE Executive Committee. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE The guideline provides 35 recommendations on the medical and non-medical risks associated with multiple pregnancies and on the clinical and embryological factors to be considered when deciding on the number of embryos to transfer. These recommendations include 25 evidence-based recommendations, of which 24 were formulated as strong recommendations and one as conditional, and 10 good practice points. Of the evidence-based recommendations, seven (28%) were supported by moderate-quality evidence. The remaining recommendations were supported by low (three recommendations; 12%), or very low-quality evidence (15 recommendations; 60%). Owing to the lack of evidence-based research, the guideline also clearly mentions recommendations for future studies. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION The guideline assessed different factors one by one based on existing evidence. However, in real life, clinicians' decisions are based on several prognostic factors related to each patient's case. Furthermore, the evidence from randomized controlled trials is too scarce to formulate high-quality evidence-based recommendations. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS The guideline provides health professionals with clear advice on best practice in the decision-making process during IVF/ICSI, based on the best evidence currently available, and recommendations on relevant information that should be communicated to patients. In addition, a list of research recommendations is provided to stimulate further studies in the field. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) The guideline was developed and funded by ESHRE, covering expenses associated with the guideline meetings, the literature searches, and the dissemination of the guideline. The guideline group members did not receive payment. DPB declared receiving honoraria for lectures from Merck, Ferring, and Gedeon Richter. She is a member of ESHRE EXCO, and the Mediterranean Society for reproductive medicine and the president of the Croatian Society for Gynaecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine. CDG is the past Chair of the ESHRE EIM Consortium and a paid deputy member of the Editorial board of Human Reproduction. IR declared receiving reimbursement from ESHRE and EDCD for attending meetings. She holds an unpaid leadership role in OBBCSSR, ECDC Sohonet, and AER. KAR-W declared receiving grants for clinical researchers and funding provision to the institution from the Swedish Cancer Society (200170F), the Senior Clinical Investigator Award, Radiumhemmets Forskningsfonder (Dnr: 201313), Stockholm County Council FoU (FoUI-953912) and Karolinska Institutet (Dnr 2020-01963), NovoNordisk, Merck and Ferring Pharmaceuticals. She received consulting fees from the Swedish Ministry of Health and Welfare. She received honoraria from Roche, Pfizer, and Organon for chairmanship and lectures. She received support from Organon for attending meetings. She participated in advisory boards for Merck, Nordic countries, and Ferring. She declared receiving time-lapse equipment and grants with payment to institution for pre-clinical research from Merck pharmaceuticals and from Ferring. SS-R received research funding from Roche Diagnostics, Organon/MSD, Theramex, and Gedeo-Richter. He received consulting fees from Organon/MSD, Ferring Pharmaceuticals, and Merck Serono. He declared receiving honoraria for lectures from Ferring Pharmaceuticals, Besins, Organon/MSD, Theramex, and Gedeon Richter. He received support for attending Gedeon Richter meetings and participated in the Data Safety Monitoring Board of the T-TRANSPORT trial. He is the Deputy of ESHRE SQART special interest group. He holds stock options in IVI Lisboa and received equipment and other services from Roche Diagnostics and Ferring Pharmaceuticals. KT declared receiving payment for honoraria for giving lectures from Merck Serono and Organon. She is member of the safety advisory board of EDQM. She holds a leadership role in the ICCBBA board of directors. ZV received reimbursement from ESHRE for attending meetings. She also received research grants from ESHRE and Juhani Aaltonen Foundation. She is the coordinator of EHSRE SQART special interest group. The other authors have no conflicts of interest to declare. DISCLAIMER This guideline represents the views of ESHRE, which were achieved after careful consideration of the scientific evidence available at the time of preparation. In the absence of scientific evidence on certain aspects, a consensus between the relevant ESHRE stakeholders has been obtained. Adherence to these clinical practice guidelines does not guarantee a successful or specific outcome, nor does it establish a standard of care. Clinical practice guidelines do not replace the need for application of clinical judgement to each individual presentation, nor variations based on locality and facility type. ESHRE makes no warranty, express or implied, regarding the clinical practice guidelines and specifically excludes any warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular use or purpose (full disclaimer available at https://www.eshre.eu/Guidelines-and-Legal).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Alessandra Alteri
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Gemma Arroyo
- Reproductive Medicine Service, Dexeus Mujer, Dexeus University Hospital, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Laurentiu Craciunas
- Department of Fertility Services and Gynaecology, Newcastle Fertility Centre, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Christian De Geyter
- Reproductive Medicine and Gynaecological Endocrinology (RME), University Hospital, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Thomas Ebner
- Department of Gynaecology, Obstetrics and Gynaecological Endocrinology, Kepler University Hospital, Linz, Austria
| | | | - Klaudija Kordic
- Patient Representative, Executive Committee, Fertility Europe, Brussels, Belgium
| | | | - Heidi Mertes
- Department of Philosophy and Moral Sciences, Gent University, Gent, Belgium
| | - Dinka Pavicic Baldani
- Division of Reproductive Medicine and Gynaecological Endocrinology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Clinical Hospital Centre Zagreb, and School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Kenny A Rodriguez-Wallberg
- Laboratory of Translational Fertility Preservation, Department of Oncology-Pathology, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
- Division of Gynaecology and Reproduction, Department of Reproductive Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Ioana Rugescu
- Cells Department, National Transplant Agency, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Samuel Santos-Ribeiro
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Valencian Institute of Infertility in Lisbon (IVI-RMA Lisboa), Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Kelly Tilleman
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Gent University Hospital, Gent, Belgium
| | | | | | - Zdravka Veleva
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Central Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Jernman RM, Stefanovic V. Multifetal pregnancy reductions and selective fetocide in a tertiary referral center - a retrospective cohort study. J Perinat Med 2024; 52:255-261. [PMID: 38281159 DOI: 10.1515/jpm-2023-0414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/23/2023] [Indexed: 01/30/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Multiple pregnancies involve several complications, most often prematurity, but also higher anomaly rates. Reducing fetuses generally improves pregnancy outcomes. We conducted this study to evaluate the obstetrical and neonatal results after multifetal pregnancy reduction (MFPR) in the largest tertiary hospital in Finland. METHODS This retrospective cohort study included all MFPR managed in Helsinki University Hospital during a 13 year period (2007-2019). Data on pregnancies, parturients and newborns were collected from patient files. The number of fetuses, chorionicities and amnionicities were defined in first-trimester ultrasound screening. RESULTS There were 54 MFPR cases included in the final analyses. Most often the reduction was from twins to singletons (n=34, 63 %). Majority of these (25/34, 73.5 %) were due to co-twin anomaly. Triplets (n=16, 29.6 %) were reduced to twins (n=7, 13 %) or singletons (n=9, 16.7 %), quadruplets (n=2, 3.7 %) and quintuplets (n=2, 3.7 %) to twins. Most (33/54, 61.1 %) MFPR procedures were done by 15+0 weeks of gestation. There were six miscarriages after MFPR and one early co-twin miscarriage. In the remaining 47 pregnancies that continued as twins (n=7, 14.9 %) or singletons (n=40, 85.1 %) the liveborn rate was 90 % for one fetus and 71.4 % for two fetuses. CONCLUSIONS Most MFPR cases were pregnancies with an anomalous co-twin. The whole pregnancy loss risk was 11.1 % after MFPR. The majority (70.6 %) of twins were spontaneous, whereas all quadruplets, quintuplets, and 56.3 % of triplets were assisted reproductive technologies (ART) pregnancies. Careful counselling should be an essential part of obstetrical care in multiple pregnancies, which should be referred to fetomaternal units for MFPR option.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Riina Maria Jernman
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fetomaternal Medical Center, Helsinki University Hospital and University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Vedran Stefanovic
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fetomaternal Medical Center, Helsinki University Hospital and University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Ye A, Liu X. Clinical value of high-intensity focused ultrasound in fetal reduction. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2024; 294:206-209. [PMID: 38295709 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2024.01.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/21/2024]
Abstract
Complex twin reduction surgery is a common but challenging procedure that aims to reduce the risks and complications of multiple pregnancies. The search for safer and more effective methods has led to the development of high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) technology in the field of fetal reduction. This technology utilizes high-energy sound waves to focus precisely on specific areas, achieving non-invasive therapeutic effects. This paper discusses the principles and features of HIFU technology, as well as its application in complex twin reduction surgery. The paper aims to elucidate the important role of this technology in improving surgical outcomes and reducing risks, explore the current limitations of the modality, and propose directions for future development. Through these investigations, it is hoped to improve overall understanding of HIFU, and thereby promote the application of this technology in the field of fetal reduction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aihua Ye
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Longhua District, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Xinhong Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Longhua District, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Agrawal M, Reddy LS, Patel D, Jyotsna G, Patel A. Fetal Reduction by Potassium Chloride Infusion in Unruptured Heterotopic Pregnancy: A Comprehensive Review. Cureus 2024; 16:e53618. [PMID: 38449926 PMCID: PMC10915710 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.53618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024] Open
Abstract
This comprehensive review explores the practice of fetal reduction through potassium chloride infusion in unruptured heterotopic pregnancies. Heterotopic pregnancies, characterized by the simultaneous occurrence of intrauterine and extrauterine gestations, present unique challenges in reproductive medicine. The review defines fetal reduction and underscores its significance in mitigating risks associated with heterotopic pregnancies, including the threat of rupture, maternal morbidity, and adverse outcomes. The analysis encompasses the background, methods, efficacy, ethical considerations, and future directions related to the procedure. Findings highlight the efficacy and safety of potassium chloride infusion, emphasizing the importance of proper patient selection and counseling. Implications for clinical practice underscore the procedure's viability in specific cases where the benefits outweigh the associated risks. The review concludes with recommendations for future studies, encouraging further research on procedural techniques, alternative methods, and the psychosocial impact on patients. This work is a foundation for advancing the management of unruptured heterotopic pregnancies, providing insights for clinicians and researchers to improve clinical outcomes and patient care.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Manjusha Agrawal
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Wardha, IND
| | - Lucky Srivani Reddy
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Wardha, IND
| | - Drashti Patel
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Wardha, IND
| | - Garapati Jyotsna
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Wardha, IND
| | - Archan Patel
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Wardha, IND
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Kristensen SE, Kvist Ekelund C, Sandager P, Stener Jørgensen F, Hoseth E, Sperling L, Zingenberg HJ, Duelund Hjortshøj T, Gadsbøll K, Wright A, Wright D, McLennan A, Sundberg K, Petersen OB. Triple trouble: uncovering the risks and benefits of early fetal reduction in trichorionic triplets in a large national Danish cohort study. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2023; 229:555.e1-555.e14. [PMID: 37263399 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2023.05.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2023] [Revised: 05/05/2023] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Triplet pregnancies are high risk for both the mother and the infants. The risks for infants include premature birth, low birthweight, and neonatal complications. Therefore, the management of triplet pregnancies involves close monitoring and may include interventions, such as fetal reduction, to prolong the pregnancy and improve outcomes. However, the evidence of benefits and risks associated with fetal reduction is inconsistent. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to compare the outcomes of trichorionic triplet pregnancies with and without fetal reduction and with nonreduced dichorionic twin pregnancies and primary singleton pregnancies. STUDY DESIGN All trichorionic triplet pregnancies in Denmark, including those with fetal reduction, were identified between 2008 and 2018. In Denmark, all couples expecting triplets are informed about and offered fetal reduction. Pregnancies with viable fetuses at the first-trimester ultrasound scan and pregnancies not terminated were included. Adverse pregnancy outcome was defined as a composite of miscarriage before 24 weeks of gestation, stillbirth at 24 weeks of gestation, or intrauterine fetal death of 1 or 2 fetuses. RESULTS The study cohort was composed of 317 trichorionic triplet pregnancies, of which 70.0% of pregnancies underwent fetal reduction to a twin pregnancy, 2.2% of pregnancies were reduced to singleton pregnancies, and 27.8% of pregnancies were not reduced. Nonreduced triplet pregnancies had high risks of adverse pregnancy outcomes (28.4%), which was significantly lower in triplets reduced to twins (9.0%; difference, 19.4%, 95% confidence interval, 8.5%-30.3%). Severe preterm deliveries were significantly higher in nonreduced triplet pregnancies (27.9%) than triplet pregnancies reduced to twin pregnancies (13.1%; difference, 14.9%, 95% confidence interval, 7.9%-21.9%). However, triplet pregnancies reduced to twin pregnancies had an insignificantly higher risk of miscarriage (6.8%) than nonreduced twin pregnancies (1.1%; difference, 5.6%; 95% confidence interval, 0.9%-10.4%). CONCLUSION Triplet pregnancies reduced to twin pregnancies had significantly lower risks of adverse pregnancy outcomes, severe preterm deliveries, and low birthweight than nonreduced triplet pregnancies. However, triplet pregnancies reduced to twin pregnancies were potentially associated with a 5.6% increased risk of miscarriage.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Steffen Ernesto Kristensen
- Department of Obstetrics, Center for Fetal Medicine and Ultrasound, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark; Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Charlotte Kvist Ekelund
- Department of Obstetrics, Center for Fetal Medicine and Ultrasound, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark; Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Puk Sandager
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Fetal Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark; Center for Fetal Diagnostics, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark; Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Finn Stener Jørgensen
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark; Fetal Medicine Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Hvidovre and Amager, Hvidovre, Denmark
| | - Eva Hoseth
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Clinic of Ultrasound, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Lene Sperling
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Ultrasound and Pregnancy, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
| | - Helle Jeanette Zingenberg
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Herlev and Gentofte, Herlev, Denmark
| | - Tina Duelund Hjortshøj
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Kasper Gadsbøll
- Department of Obstetrics, Center for Fetal Medicine and Ultrasound, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark; Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Alan Wright
- Institute of Health Research, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - David Wright
- Institute of Health Research, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew McLennan
- Sydney Ultrasound for Women, Chatswood, New South Wales, Australia; Discipline of Obstetrics, Gynaecology, and Neonatology, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Karin Sundberg
- Department of Obstetrics, Center for Fetal Medicine and Ultrasound, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Olav Bjørn Petersen
- Department of Obstetrics, Center for Fetal Medicine and Ultrasound, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark; Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|