Some common abnormalities that are found with ABS include clubfoot, cleft lip, cleft palate and clubhand.
Frequency
1 in 1,200 to 1 in 15,000 live births
Treatment Options
Most commonly this condition is treated after the birth of the baby. Frequently upon birth the tissues have healed around the bands and “natural” amputation, if applicable, has already occurred. Surgical treatments to release the bands normally begin around 3 months of age. Physical therapy and plastic surgery are often fundamental to the healing and recovery process.
In-utero treatment of ABS has recently become an option when the risk to the mother and baby are minimized. It is the first time surgical treatment has been performed in utero for a non-life threatening birth defect. Although in utero treatment has no guarantees it offers the possibility to release the band(s) which could save a limb or otherwise.
Resources
