Amnion rupture sequence in previable fetuses

Abstract

Amnion rupture sequence is considered an uncommon, sporadic condition among liveborn infants. We have examined 1,010 previable fetuses (9–20 weeks developmental age) to determine the incidence and nature of amnion rupture sequence at this stage of development. We found 18 affected fetuses (15 spontaneous and 3 induced abortions.) with the incidence of 1:56. Eleven fetuses had limb constrictions and amputations only; 7 fetuses also had nonlimb involvement, including disruptions of the craniofacial region mimicking encephalocele, unusual facial clefts, and abdominal defects. In 6 pregnancies, constrictions of the umbilical cord by amniotic bands were the cause of fetal intrauterine death.