Amniotic Band Syndrome

Amniotic band syndrome (ABS) is a rare congenital condition that constricts blood flow and causes birth defects in developing fetuses during pregnancy.

About Amniotic Band Syndrome (ABS)

How does amniotic band syndrome occur?

Amniotic band syndrome (ABS) occurs when the amnion, the thin tissue that forms a membrane or sac around the fetus, is damaged during pregnancy. When this happens, loose strands or bands of tissue in the uterus tangle around the developing baby. The bands may wrap around the arms and legs of the baby which can lead to malformations and other problems. If an amniotic band wraps around the umbilical cord, it can block blood flow from the placenta which can cause a life-threatening situation.

A doctor may detect ABS during a prenatal ultrasound, however, amniotic bands are challenging to see. Most often, the damage from the bands is found after the baby is born. Additionally, a mother’s risk of developing ABS is rare and the exact cause is unknown, but it is not believed to be genetic.

How is ABS diagnosed?

Before your baby is born, the Fetal Center will evaluate your baby’s condition with detailed testing such as a prenatal ultrasound, fetal MRI or fetal echocardiogram. If ABS is detected, the Fetal Center will schedule a prenatal consultation with a maternal-fetal medicine specialist, neonatologist, and fetal radiologist to learn more about your baby’s condition and ask questions.

Monitoring ABS during pregnancy

During pregnancy, our highly skilled team of doctors will evaluate your baby’s condition at regularly scheduled ultrasounds. We look for swelling or other blockages that may impact blood flow to the body parts. In most cases of ABS, treatment is not needed until after the baby is born.

Treatments

How is ABS treated?

Treatment for ABS depends upon what body parts or organs are affected.

In the rare case that the amniotic band may cause damage to your baby, your doctor may recommend amniotic band release while you are pregnant. The goal of amniotic band release is to cut the amniotic band which releases the tightness caused by the band. This allows the body parts to get their normal blood flow, lessens swelling and reduces further damage while the baby is still developing in the womb.

After your baby is born, treatment may consist of plastic surgery, followed by physical and occupational therapy. Prosthetics may be recommended when the child is older too.

Delivering with ABS

If fetal surgery is necessary to release an amniotic band, you may be able to receive ongoing pregnancy care at your local doctor. The Fetal Center will remain in close contact with your doctor to follow your health, address any issues or questions and provide care as needed.

If your baby has fetal amniotic band release surgery, it will not affect how you decide to deliver your baby. You can choose a vaginal delivery if there are no severe fetal or maternal conditions that impact the decision. If your baby needs specialized care soon after birth, your baby may be born in the Riley Maternity Tower where our team of specialists will be ready to care for you and your baby.

In addition, amniotic band syndrome in one pregnancy has not been shown to increase your risk for developing it in future pregnancies.

Key Points to Remember

Amniotic band syndrome (ABS) occurs when the amnion, the thin tissue that forms a membrane or sac around the fetus, is damaged during pregnancy.
If ABS is detected, the Fetal Center will schedule a prenatal consultation with a maternal-fetal medicine specialist, neonatologist, and fetal radiologist to learn more about your baby’s condition and ask questions.
In the rare case that the amniotic band may cause damage to your baby, your doctor may recommend amniotic band release while you are pregnant.
If fetal surgery is necessary to release an amniotic band, you may be able to receive ongoing pregnancy care at your local doctor.

Locations

In addition to our primary hospital location at the Academic Health Center in Indianapolis, IN, we have convenient locations to better serve our communities throughout the state.