Amniotic Band Syndrome/ABS

What is amniotic band syndrome?

Amniotic band syndrome, also known as constriction ring syndrome, happens when fibrous bands of the amniotic sac (the lining inside the uterus that contains a fetus) get tangled around a developing fetus.

 

Amniotic Band Syndrome

In rare cases, the bands wrap around the fetus’ head or umbilical cord. Most of the time, the bands wrap around an arm, leg, fingers, or toes. This can cause serious constrictions (tightening), acting like a tight rubber band around the body part. Most children with amniotic band syndrome will have bands on more than one part of the body.

 

Amniotic Band Syndrome

How common is amniotic band syndrome?

Amniotic band syndrome affects about 1 out of every 10,000 to 15,000 babies. Doctors think it happens in the fingers more often than in the toes.

What are the symptoms of amniotic band syndrome?

The amniotic band might only cause a small dent around a finger or limb. But deeper bands can cause serious swelling, cut off of the flow of blood, or keep that part of the body from growing the right way. If a band is tight enough, the constriction may cause an in utero (before birth) amputation (part of the body coming off)

Amniotic Band Syndrome

What causes amniotic band syndrome?

The exact cause of the syndrome is not known. Doctors do not think amniotic band syndrome is hereditary (passed from parent to child). Many cases seem to happen for no clear reason.

What conditions are related to amniotic band syndrome?

Some children with amniotic band syndrome may also have cleft lip and/or cleft palate. Children with amniotic band syndrome often also have clubfoot.

Amniotic Band Syndrome

How is amniotic band syndrome diagnosed?

Amniotic band syndrome is sometimes diagnosed before birth with an ultrasound test. Most of the time, it is seen when a baby is born. Your child may have an x-ray to help find out how serious the problem is.

 

Amniotic Band Syndrome