Background
Overall, amnioreduction is an easy procedure. The rationale behind it is that the normalizing of fluid levels reduces maternal discomfort, improves uteroplacental perfusion (especially in the setting of presumed twin-twin transfusion syndrome [TTTS]), and prolongs pregnancy.
Amnioreduction may be performed manually or with vacuum-assisted devices (vacuum tubing and vacuum bottles). Needles of differing gauges may be used (typically 18 or 20 gauge), and varying amounts of fluid may be removed at varying rates, depending on the clinical situation.