Favorable neonatal outcome following late-term amniotic membrane rupture with free-floating band: A case report and literature review.

RATIONALE: Amniotic band syndrome (ABS), or amniotic rupture sequence, is a rare congenital condition characterized by fibrous amniotic bands that may entangle fetal parts, leading to constriction, deformities, or even intrauterine demise. However, not all abnormalities of the amniotic membrane result in classical ABS. This case describes a late-term rupture of the amniotic membrane with a free-floating band, but without any evidence of fetal entanglement or malformation. The fetus had a favorable prognosis, suggesting a benign variant of amniotic membrane rupture rather than true ABS.

PATIENT CONCERNS: A 30-year-old primigravid woman with a history of polyhydramnios, who presented at 39+5 weeks of gestation with concerns of a floating echogenic band suggestive of amniotic membrane rupture and possible umbilical cord entanglement.

DIAGNOSES: Prenatal ultrasound confirmed persistent polyhydramnios and a ruptured amniotic membrane, with no evidence of constriction around the fetal head or body.

INTERVENTIONS: Labor was induced at 39 weeks 6 days using intravenous oxytocin, and a vaginal delivery was performed with an episiotomy-assisted approach due to fetal heart rate decelerations.

OUTCOMES: The infant had Apgar scores of 10 at both 1 and 5 minutes, with normal postnatal growth and development, and the mother recovered well without complications.

LESSONS: Timely prenatal diagnosis and careful monitoring are crucial in managing amniotic rupture.