We report on the pregnancy management of a 22-year-old woman with amyoplasi
a, the commonest type of arthrogryposis multiplex congenita (AMC). Extrapol
ating from childhood and adult studies, the majority of cases are likely to
be ambulatory and live independent lives as adults. Many females, therefor
e, would be expected to achieve a pregnancy.
There have been several case reports on anaesthetic management for Caesarea
n section delivery in women with arthrogryposis, but no medical literature
exists regarding the likelihood or management of vaginal delivery This is t
he first reported case of conservative management of a woman with amyoplasi
a. A multi-disciplinary team was involved in her care. This involved carefu
l assessment of her suitability for vaginal delivery, possible anaesthetic
complications and potential difficulties in caring for an infant at home. I
nduction of labour at 37 weeks gestation resulted in the successful vaginal
delivery of a liveborn healthy male.