Delayed-Interval Delivery in Dichorionic Twin Pregnancies: A Single-Center Experience.

BACKGROUND

Preterm delivery is the most common complication of multiple gestations and is associated with high perinatal mortality. When preterm labor occurs, delivery of the first fetus is inevitable. However, successfully delaying the delivery of the second fetus can be lifesaving.

CASE REPORT: We report 2 cases of delayed-interval delivery of dichorionic diamniotic twin pregnancies admitted to our emergency department at 17+5 and 22+1 weeks of gestation. After abortion of the first fetus, the second twin was left in utero, and uterine contractions ceased. The patients received antibiotics, and tocolytic therapy was administered when needed after 24 weeks. This management prolonged pregnancy for 64 and 16 days, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Although no accepted protocol for the treatment of this condition currently exists, an excellent outcome for the second fetus is possible if these pregnancies are managed in a tertiary perinatal center.