TRAP sequence
Also written as: TRAP — Twin Reversed Arterial Perfusion
Twin pregnancy complication where one twin lacks a functional cardiovascular system.
Full Definition
Twin Reversed Arterial Perfusion (TRAP) sequence is a rare complication of monochorionic twin pregnancies, occurring in approximately 1% of monochorionic twins. In this condition, one twin (the acardiac or TRAP twin) develops without a functional heart and is perfused by the other twin (the pump twin) through reversed flow in the umbilical artery. The acardiac twin typically has absent or rudimentary cardiac development and may have other severe malformations. The pump twin is at risk for cardiac failure due to the increased workload of perfusing both twins. Treatment may involve selective reduction of the acardiac twin through various techniques including radiofrequency ablation.
Usage
Usage note: TRAP always capitalized when used as acronym; 'sequence' preferred over 'syndrome'.
In Context
- "Ultrasound findings confirmed TRAP sequence with an acardiac twin and evidence of cardiac strain in the pump twin." — Maternal fetal medicine consultation
- "Radiofrequency ablation was performed to interrupt flow to the acardiac twin in this TRAP sequence." — Procedure note