The problem of preterm delivery after laser surgery.

Preterm birth after fetoscopic laser surgery for twin-twin transfusion continues to be a major challenge despite improved survival rates. The risk factors for the complications have been identified, which include preterm premature rupture of membranes, cervical length shortening, larger cannula diameter, amnioinfusion, complicated procedure, and severe disease. The interventions to prevent preterm birth such as cervical cerclage for short cervix and collagen plug placement have not been successful. Further understanding of the pathophysiology is urgently needed to identify newer methods to prevent preterm birth.