Each fetal head contained the appropriate number of appendages, although the ears appeared disproportionately large for each head. Length and weight measurements were disproportionate for the fetus; the fetus weighed 690 g (26 weeks), the crown–rump length was 16 cm (20 weeks), the crown–heel length was selleck 28 cm (22 weeks), and the heel–toe length was 5 cm (28 weeks). Both the hands and the feet appeared disproportionately large for the fetus, as demonstrated by the assigned gestational age by heel–toe length. Examination of the internal organs revealed abnormalities

predominantly within the thoracic cavity. Hypoplasia of the lungs was evident, with the right lung weighing 2.5 g and the left lung weighing 5.3 g (normal 24 week fetus would have a 17 gram combined lung weight). Furthermore, the right lung demonstrated a rudimentary fourth lobe. An adherent 0.4 cm diameter focus of this website ectopic pancreas was noted along the adventitia of the distal esophagus. The only abdominal duplication involved the formation of a bifid gallbladder. All other abdominal organs appeared appropriate in size and orientation. Of note, an additional focus of ectopic pancreas formation was evident as an adherent 0.2 cm diameter nodule along the

greater curvature. Microscopic analysis revealed extramedullary hematopoiesis in the liver, and congestion of the spleen. A single kidney was present on the right and left side and demonstrated vascular congestion. Mild abnormalities of the pelvic organs were noted, including a uterus with constriction along the superior aspect of the fundus. The remainder of the thoracic, abdominal, and pelvic organs appeared normal in orientation, although in size corresponded to a variable gestational age of 22–28 weeks. To our knowledge there are no published reports of the use of three-dimensional ultrasonography in clarifying this nonviable form of conjoined twins, although first trimester diagnosis

[3] and the use of MRI [4] to assist has been described. Recent reports have shown the value in both 2D and 3D ultrasound in the first trimester to classify conjoined twins and allow earlier reproductive choices [5], [6], [7] and [8]. Classification of conjoined twins is paramount for guiding obstetrical management. Linifanib (ABT-869) Prenatal diagnosis can help guide decisions so that both fetal and maternal Modulators morbidity and mortality can be minimized. When considered as a whole, 75% of conjoined twins do not survive the first 24 h of life [9]. The fetal chance for survival has to be weighed against the potential surgical morbidity to the mother and feasibility of vaginal delivery [9]. In this case of non-viable conjoined twins, the use of 2D and 3D ultrasound correlated very closely with the postmortem autopsy report and measurement of the combined cephalic diameter allowed for a successful trial of vaginal delivery.