Gynecology & Obstetrics
Open Access
ISSN: 2161-0932
ISSN: 2161-0932
Safina Tanveer
Khyber Teaching Hospital, Pakistan
Scientific Tracks Abstracts: Gynecol Obstet
Sirenomelia, or mermaid syndrome, is a rare congenital disorder characterized by the fusion of lower limbs and often associated with multisystem organ dysfunction, resulting in poor survival beyond the neonatal period. We report a case of sirenomelia in a full-term infant born to a 28-year-old primigravida with no significant medical history, gestational diabetes, or teratogenic exposure. The antenatal period was complicated by oligohydramnios, though routine ultrasounds failed to detect the condition. The diagnosis of sirenomelia was only made after delivery by cesarean section, with a compatible with-life appearance, pulse, grimace, activity, and respiration (APGAR) score. The infant was referred to the pediatric surgical department due to abdominal distension and fused lower limbs, with plans to manage these conditions if the infant survived long term. During the three-day hospital stay, vomiting was noted, and a babygram confirmed Stocker and Heifetz type IV sirenomelia and distended large bowel. An exploratory laparotomy revealed gross gastrointestinal and genitourinary abnormalities. A sigmoid colostomy was performed to relieve obstruction. Unfortunately, the infant expired shortly after surgery. This case highlights the challenges of prenatal diagnosis and the limited understanding of surgical management in sirenomelia, particularly given the rarity of survival beyond the neonatal period.
Dr. Safina Tanveer is a PGY-2 General Surgery resident and a PMDC and IMC registered medical professional, holding the MRCS-A qualification. A graduate of Khyber Medical College in Peshawar, she is currently advancing her surgical training with a strong focus on clinical excellence and skills development. Driven by a passion for womenâ??s health, Dr. Tanveer aspires to specialize as a breast surgeon and contribute to improved cancer care, early diagnosis, and patient-centered surgical outcomes.