A Neonate with Amniotic Band Syndrome and Osteomyelitis

Abstract

Background: Amniotic band syndrome (ABS) comprises of a spectrum of congenital malformations involving the limbs more often, but any other anatomic region of fetus could be involved (1). Its prevalence has been reported to range from 0.19 to 8.1 per 10000 live births (2). There are different theories for explaining the etiology of amniotic bands, but it has been considered to have a multifactorial etiology. (2) Fetoscopic release of amniotic bands affecting one or more extremities can prevent limb loss or preserve limb function when distal fellow is still identifiable on preoperative ultrasound scans (3)(4). ABS occurs in 77% of fetuses with multiple anomalies (5). Both males and females are equally affected (6). Osteomyelitis in neonates is relatively uncommon, but burdened with an increased hospital stay and possible long‐term sequela if not diagnosed on time (18). The long bones are the most frequently affected sites (18).Case presentation: Here we are introducing a neonate with left upper extremity necrosis due to ABS which needed amputation and it was associated with severe chronic osteomyelitis.Conclusion: Amniotic band syndrome mostly involves the limbs. It is important to diagnose it as soon as possible, because with the interprofessional teamwork approach, an optimal patient result with fetoscopic or surgery procedures could be achieved.