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Abstract

Amniotic band sequence (ABS) is a constellation of congenital malformations involving mostly distal extremities, less often craniofacial and visceral defects. It is often characterized by the asymmetry of the organ involvement and can manifest with varying severity. Amniotic band sequence lacks a precise definition and pathogenic mechanism, with the extrinsic theory of “Early amnion rupture sequence” being the most widely accepted hypothesis. Using 3-dimension (3D) or 4-dimension (4D) ultrasound scans, ABS related fetal diagnoses can be made early in pregnancy facilitating fetal interventions. Today with minimally invasive fetal surgery, the amniotic bands can be released to save a limb or to avoid a fetal death due to amniotic band constriction of the umbilical cord. To date, no definite genetic basis has been known for the defects seen in ABS. Published articles; monographs and personal experience in fetal and neonatal diagnosis of ABS have contributed extensively to this review article.