"Rubber band syndrome" in children: a case report and literature review

Background: "Rubber band syndrome" is rare which often occurs in young children because of forgotten elastic band wrapping in different body parts. This study aimed to report a case and make a literature review on "rubber band syndrome". Methods: A four-year-old boy was referred to our department because of swelling and restriction movement of forearm for two months. The child presented with a linear circumferential scar around the forearm. Plain x-ray showed a distinctive ulnar notch with circling hyperostosis. Ultrasonography indicated a high echo of proximal ring in the forearm. A surgical exploration was taken. Results: After surgical exploration of circumferential scar, the band was seen and then removed. The patient had a favorable outcome in the follow-up investigations. Conclusion: Forearm linear constricting scar in young children accompanied with swelling and pain should alert the clinician to suspect the diagnosis of rubber band syndrome. Plain x-ray and ultrasound are helpful in leading to diagnosis. Early recognition of the syndrome can avert catastrophe.