Prenatal diagnosis of amniotic band syndrome - risk factors and ultrasonic signs

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study was to describe our experience with amniotic band syndrome (ABS), define specific sonographic characteristics and common features.

Methods: Patients diagnosed with ABS underwent detailed ultrasound evaluation at the time of diagnosis and during follow-up. Their ultrasound examinations and medical records concerning the current pregnancy and past medical records were analyzed.

Results: Ten pregnancies were diagnosed with ABS. Most pregnancies were diagnosed at the beginning of the second trimester. Two cases were bichorionic twin pregnancies involving one of the fetuses and these were the only women who continued their pregnancies to term. The other eight cases with ABS chose to terminate their pregnancies. One pregnancy was conceived following trachelectomy. We found a significantly higher rate of prior uterine surgeries (p = 0.008) in patient with ABS compared to control. In three cases, all above 15 weeks of gestation, a small vestige at the distal part of the amputated limb was observed.

Conclusions: ABS diagnosed in early pregnancy can be a sporadic event. However, there is a higher risk of ABS in pregnancies preceded by uterine procedures. The ultrasonic vestige sign at the amputated limb may contribute to the diagnosis of ABS.

Keywords: Amputation; trachelectomy; twin pregnancy; uterine surgery; vestige.