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Amniotic Band Syndrome

When you are having a baby and learn that there are complications in the womb, it can be very stressful. Not only are you worried about the health of your baby, but you are also worried about the health of the mother. Sometimes these complications can be handled with rest and monitoring, and other times they need to be addressed immediately. One such complication that can happen in the womb and cause severe birth defect is known as Amniotic Band Syndrome.

Amniotic Band Syndrome is an abnormality that occurs in the fetus as a baby develops. It can have multiple different types of deformities that it causes. Its effects on the feet can be very severe, leading to deformities like missing digits or parts of the feet. Although the condition is uncommon, it is not considered rare.

This syndrome occurs when the amniotic band wraps itself around the foot or part of the foot. It slowly begins to constrict and causes the loss of blood flow to the foot, toe or ankle.  At first, the appendage begins to swell. As the band stays constricted, more damage is caused as the foot develops. The foot can begin to have an abnormal growth of bone, tissues, tendons, and other key parts. ABS can cause bones to fuse together or it can cause the absence of toes or bones.

If a baby suffers from Amniotic Band Syndrome while in the womb, the baby has a high chance of developing a club foot deformity. This deformity causes the foot to be angled up and resembles a club.

Although this condition is not always life-threatening, it can alter the quality of life a child may have when he or she is born. Some babies who have very severe symptoms from Amniotic Band Syndrome will have a harder time with mobility later on in life and may need to use orthotics to help them. In other instances, those affected may not be able to walk.

Fortunately, due to medical advancement, surgery is now an option for people who suffer from this disorder. Before choosing this option, it is important to consult with a podiatrist to be sure this is the right choice for you and your family. Call Syracuse Podiatry, located in East Syracuse, New York. Dr. Ryan L. D’Amico and Dr. Payel Ghosh can help minimize the effects of Amniotic Band Syndrome for your child. Call 315-446-3668 or make an appointment online today.

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