We went through an ultrasound that showed increased signs of TTTS. The fluid level around Baby B increased from 6 cm to 9 cm in the past 10 days.
Both babies had gained an ounce, which cut down on the size difference: Baby B now weighed 9 oz. and Baby A weighed 5 oz. This is still a concern, due to how early in the pregnancy the babies started showing size differences.
The echo cardiogram that examines the hearts illustrated that our babies have had no heart damage. After our echo cardiogram was finished we had about a three and a half hour wait until we were to meet with Dr. Cromblehombe.
Our meeting did not happen with Dr. Cromblehombe, but with another MFM on his staff. This doctor explained to us that our condition has gotten a little scarier since the last time we met. The increase in amniotic fluid was one concern, but an even greater concern was what showed up on the dopplers. Baby A's doppler showed an absence of blood flow in the umbilical artery and Baby B's doppler showed an intermitent absence in blood flow in the umbilical artery. The doctor gave us some options:
- Amnio Reduction to remove the increased amount of fluid around Baby B. Amnio Reductions reverse or halt the progress of TTTS in about 20% of TTTS cases. He felt that this was the safest option for both me and our babies.
- Laser Surgery; however, he thought this was a more aggressive approach at this time. There are worries that come along with this surgery, especially if the placental share is not close to equal between the babies.
We opted for the amnio reduction and hoped that we'll fit in that 20% of patients with success. Before leaving Cincinnati we arranged to have the procedure done at Aultman the next day. We would then have to return to Cincinnati on Friday, May 2 and Tuesday, May 6 to check the progress of the babies. At this point we would discuss if the amnio reduction worked or if we would need to consider laser surgery.
We feel rather confident with our ability to locate the hospital now, I think we can return that GPS system to Pop, my grandfather.
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