Congenital Constriction Band Syndrome and

The cause of Congenital Constriction Band Syndrome has been in debate over 300 years. There are two main theories as to what could be its true cause. The two main theories discussed are the intrinsic and extrinsic theories. This condition may cause inhibiting or life-threatening conditions as well as secondary deformities. To correct or help add function to these conditions there are surgical options available. Pregnant women should be informed of possible diagnosing options and treatments for the future of their infant. Congenital Constriction Band Syndrome 3 Congenital Constriction Band Syndrome and It’s Affects on Infants Congenital Constriction Band Syndrome (CCBS) is a controversial subject affecting fetuses due to the fact that there is no known cause yet agreed upon. Many theories have been made regarding its cause and therefore CCBS may be referred to by other names. Some include amniotic band syndrome (ABS), also known as “Adam Complex”, Streeter Dysplasia, annular groove, ring constriction syndrome and Pseudoainhulm (Light & Ogden, 1993, p.143). This condition has been studied since the time of Hippocrates and Aristole in the early 300 BC. Some thoughts as to what could be the real cause of this condition include developmental problems in the formation of limb connective tissue, germ plasma defect, histology, and maternal trauma leading to a rupture of the amniotic membrane (Twee, 2009, p.1) Whichever the cause, CCBS is estimated to occur in 1 out of 1,200 pregnancies to 1 in 15,000 live births in the U.S. It is also believed to be the cause of 178 in 10,000 miscarriages. It affects both sexes equally and is a congenital disorder that causes constriction of limbs, digits, or other body parts of a fetus. A congenital disorder describes a condition existing at birth or before birth (Twee, 2009, p.2). “There is a significant predilection for the upper extremities and an increased frequency in distal limbs, and longer digits are significantly more involved than shorter ones” (Choulakian &Williams, 2008, p.221). “The hands are affected in almost 90% of cases (Twee, 2009, p.3). Therefore, it is a condition that should be made aware of to educate pregnant women as well as individuals working in health care.