Quintero 1999

Quintero Staging

Twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome

Clinician mode

Low risk

Stage 1

Poly/oligohydramnios sequence, bladder still visible in donor

  • Stage II–IV before 26/40 → fetoscopic laser (Solomon technique) is treatment of choice.
  • Refer to fetal medicine centre urgently in any MCDA twin with poly/oligo mismatch.

Reference range

I: DVP >8 (recipient) / <2 cm (donor) · II: bladder absent · III: abnormal Dopplers · IV: hydrops · V: demise

Common pitfalls

  • Stage does not predict outcome linearly — Dopplers matter most.
  • MCDA twins need 2-weekly scans from 16/40.

For educational use only

Not medical advice. Verify dosing against the BNF and your local trust guidelines before prescribing.