Advanced
Technical
IVT
cord occlusion
Surgical interruption of umbilical blood flow to terminate circulation in selected fetus.
Full Definition
Cord occlusion is a fetal surgical procedure that interrupts blood flow through the umbilical cord to selectively terminate circulation to one fetus in multiple gestations or anomalous single fetuses. This technique is commonly used in TRAP sequence, severe twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome, or cases where one twin has anomalies incompatible with life. Methods include surgical ligation, clips, or coagulation devices applied to cord vessels. The procedure aims to prevent complications to the surviving fetus while maintaining the pregnancy.
Usage
Usage note: Specify the method of occlusion (surgical, thermal, or mechanical) when documenting procedures.
In Context
- "Cord occlusion was performed to interrupt flow to the acardiac twin at 20 weeks gestation." — Fetal intervention operative note
- "The pump twin showed immediate improvement in cardiac function following successful cord occlusion." — Postoperative assessment report
Also known as
umbilical cord ligation
cord interruption
Contrasted with
cord preservation
vascular anastomosis
Don't confuse with
cord compression
cord prolapse