There are no known preventative measures that can be taken for ABS. If the condition is not severe it may not require treatment of any kind. In mild cases of ABS there may be visible marks on the baby’s skin after birth, but nothing medically worrisome that would justify an expensive and dangerous surgical intervention.

If treatment is required (such as surgery to correct a cleft lip, or therapy for a circulatory problem) it will often be administered after the baby is born. ABS generally does not complicate delivery or affect the choice of delivery method (i.e., C-sections are rarely necessary).

If the ABS appears to be threatening the baby’s life, however, or if it appears likely that a limb will be amputated, then surgery may be considered. The patient will be given a spinal block or an epidural rather than general anesthesia, and a tiny camera will be inserted into the amniotic sac through her abdomen. The surgeon will cut the amniotic bands, releasing the affected limb, umbilical cord, or other affected body part.