Conjoined twins: Pre-birth management, changes to NRP, and transport

The management of conjoined twins is complex and requires careful preparation. Pre-birth management includes prenatal counseling, which is important due to the overall poor prognosis. In instances of trial of life, the delivery must be tailored to address the anticipated anatomy based on prenatal im...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Seminars in perinatology 2018-10, Vol.42 (6), p.321-328
Main Authors: C. Sager, Elizabeth, Thomas, Alana, C. Sundgren, Nathan
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Birth
Conjoined twins
Delivery
Neonatal Resuscitation Program
Simulation
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Summary:The management of conjoined twins is complex and requires careful preparation. Pre-birth management includes prenatal counseling, which is important due to the overall poor prognosis. In instances of trial of life, the delivery must be tailored to address the anticipated anatomy based on prenatal imaging and anticipated physiology. A multidisciplinary team is essential to anticipate and address the ergonomic challenges and medical issues related to organ fusion, cross-circulation and associated anomalies. There are several suggested modifications to the current Neonatal Resuscitation Program algorithm including modifications to initial assessment, airway management, administration of chest compressions, obtaining emergency access, and medication dosing. Simulation is essential to address challenges, practice Neonatal Resuscitation Program modifications, delineate clear roles during delivery and practice communication. This paper offers a discussion of unique issues associated with delivery of conjoined twins and recommendations on how to approach these challenges based on our experience and available literature.
ISSN:0146-0005
1558-075X
DOI:10.1053/j.semperi.2018.07.008