Amniotic band syndrome –a hospital based fetal study

Abstract

Amniotic band syndrome(ABS) is a broad term for a group of congenital abnormalities that occur due to partial rupture of the amniotic sac. Fibrous strands of ruptured amnion float in the amniotic fluid, which can encircle or trap part of fetus. Later as the fetus grows ,these bands become constricting .The congenital anomalies resulting from these constriction bands range from minor constriction rings ,lymphoedema of digits to complete amputation of digits or limbs. Present study was conducted on 1000 fetuses obtained from department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Government medical college and hospital, Chandigarh. Autopsy was done in department of Anatomy, GMCH Chandigarh. In our present study the incidence of amniotic band syndrome was 0.8% (out of 1000 fetuses ABS was noted in 8 fetuses). Associated anomalies were noted in each case. Prenatal diagnosis of ABS is important to detect and avoid further complications in life.