The amniotic band syndrome is a collection of congenital deformities presumably 
due to rupture of amniotic sac. It appears to cause fetal injury through three 
basic mechanisms including malformation, disruption, and deformation. The 
associated anomalies vary from minor digital defect to major craniofacial and 
visceral defects. They can be categorized as neural tube-like defects, 
craniofacial anomalies, limb anomalies, abdominal and thoracic wall defects, 
visceral anomalies, and constriction bands. We present two autopsy cases and 
discuss the diagnostic features. Our findings support Torpin's theory that the 
fibrous constriction bands generated from early rupture of the amnion. An 
accurate diagnosis may be achieved by looking for the major features of amniotic 
band syndrome and a routine chromosome study and placental examination in cases 
with multiple congenital deformities.