Intrauterine death in twin pregnancies

The loss of a fetus in a multiple pregnancy is relatively frequent. The main risk factor is a monochorionic twin pregnancy. If fetal loss occurs after 16 weeks of pregnancy, the survivor is also at increased risk of intrauterine death. In monochorionic twins, the risk of neurological sequelae can be as high as 25%. These lesions are due to acute episodes of hypoperfusion immediately following the death of the co-twin. Maternal complications including coagulation disorders are rare. The management will vary according to the type of placenta, the gestational age and the condition of the surviving twin. When the last trimenon has been reached, rapid delivery is probably the safest management. In monochorinoic biamniotic twins, the risk to the survivor often justifies the induction of delivery between 28 and 32 weeks of gestation after steroids have been administered. In most cases, before the 28th week of gestation, a conservative management will be proposed. In monochorionic monoamniotic twins, immediate delivery should be considered as soon as fetal viability is reached.