Amniotic Band Syndrome: A Clinical Report

Abstract

Amniotic band syndrome, also known as constriction ring syndrome, is a congenital anomaly characterised by soft tissue bands or rings encircling parts of the limbs, more commonly affecting the hand or digits. These bands characteristically vary from simple incomplete constriction bands to deep, fully circumferential rings which may ultimately result in necrosis and intrauterine amputations of limb parts, usually digits. The cause has evoked much debate in the literature. At birth sufferers may exhibit shortened, deformed digits, lymphoedema distal to these tight bands, acrosyndactyly (webbing of distal parts) and digital amputations. Individuals affected with this syndrome often require surgical intervention and therapy to maximise hand function. The following is a case of an eleven year old child with amniotic band syndrome who underwent a toe to hand transfer.