What is amniotic band syndrome — causes and treatment

Amniotic band syndrome is a type of congenital disorder which results due to some problem in the amnion’s inner lining. The sac in which the baby is present in the womb is termed as the amnion. This is a very rare condition that happens during pregnancy and as a result of this, bands of tissue start forming inside the amnion. Deformities in the baby can occur as a result of this congenital problem. When these bands get tangled tightly, it hurts the fetus and, in worst cases, can also lead to amputation of limbs.

Causes of amniotic band syndrome

The fetus develops in the amniotic fluid of the mother. The sac is responsible for keeping the fetus and the amniotic fluid inside. The sac is a double-layered structure and the two layers are attached together. Among the two layers, the one which is in closer proximity to the fetus is called the amnion whereas the outermost layer called the chorion lines the uterus. When the amnion ruptures but the chorion remains intact, that is when the amniotic band syndrome occurs. The fetus, too, stays intact in the amniotic fluid but the ruptured tissues of the amnion come in exposure with the fetus and get entangled around it thus, sometimes leading to amputation and deformities.

Treatment of amniotic band syndrome

Not all amniotic band cases require treatment but a regular check-up and monitoring of the bands are very essential to ensure that everything stays in control. You must always keep a track on any progressive constriction taking place in your womb. But if the conditions become worse, here are some treatment options –

· Fetal Surgery — When a constriction in the womb is diagnosed, surgery is done to prevent the constriction from causing further damage. There is a procedure known as operative fetoscopy. With the aid of this process, the doctors will be able to get a direct visual on the amniotic band and thus ensure its proper release. The success of the use of various surgical techniques in this process largely depends on the gravity of the situation and how much damage the constrictions have done. When there is a swelling on the distal region of the extremity, using surgical techniques to release the band will ensure a normal development takes place in that part and the swelling is gone.

· Treatment after birth — When the amniotic band syndrome results in a deformity, post-birth treatment is required. This is mostly in the form of plastic and reconstructive surgery. After the surgery, different types of therapies are also suggested by the doctor. If the children have lost a limb/limbs, then prosthetics can be of help in such situations.

Paediatric surgery Delhi is highly developed and has successfully treated cases of amniotic band syndrome. If you are diagnosed with this problem, then you should take appropriate measures to ensure a healthy birth. The paediatric surgeons in Delhi also have a high success rate of reconstructive surgery after birth in children born with deformities.

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