Laser fetal surgery. Laser fetal surgery is the only treatment that targets the cause of the TTTS. In this procedure, a laser fiber enclosed in a long, thin telescope is inserted into the uterus to separate the blood vessels on the placenta that run from one twin to the other. For severe TTTS, laser fetal surgery produces better results than other treatments, and there are fewer complications and fewer cases of severe heart and brain damage in the twins. Separating the blood vessels also protects a fetus from the damaging effects of the other twin’s death. There is still a risk that the invasive procedure itself may cause premature rupture of the membrane and premature labor. This surgery is the most aggressive treatment option for TTTS, particularly for the mother. While the maternal risk of fetal surgery is minimal, both minor and major complications can occur.