Managing a Pregnancy With Maternal Amelia

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Amelia, the complete absence of a limb, presents various management issues in pregnancy and delivery. CASE: A woman with amelia of both lower limbs and flipper-like upper limb buds (phocomelia) presented in her first pregnancy at 19 weeks of gestation. Challenging issues encountered in the care of the patient included venous access, reliable blood pressure measurement, recommendations regarding mode of delivery, and preparation for caring for the child. The patient had abnormalities of the pelvis but an adequate midpelvis, so she was able to deliver vaginally without complication. CONCLUSION: Careful planning to allow necessary modification of intrapartum management can allow for normal vaginal birth for a patient with severe limb reduction abnormalities such as amelia and phocomelia.