Amniotic band constriction involving the umbilical cord – unexpectedly fast progression to fetal demise at mid-gestation

Purpose: Amniotic bands may lead to constriction of the umbilical cord. The purpose of this case is to provide rare anecdotal evidence for the short time period during which this complication can become life-threatening and result in fetal demise. Case: A 23-year old woman, gravida-2-para-0, was referred at 22+2 weeks of gestation. Ultrasound examination showed a convolute of amniotic membranes and umbilical cord fixed to a malformed fetal hand. Normal Doppler-blood flow profiles were recorded within the umbilical cord and hand. At the same time, an increased velocity within the medial cerebral artery as well as…