Surgery & Hospitalizations

women in hallways EDSPrep for Procedures Patient Guides

Understanding the differences between connective tissue disorders is critical when facing surgery, because these conditions can significantly affect how the body responds to anesthesia, heals wounds, and recovers from trauma. For example, patients with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome may have fragile tissues, delayed healing, or increased bleeding risks, while those with vascular EDS face even more serious complications due to the fragility of blood vessels. Not all connective tissue disorders affect the body in the same way, so it’s essential that surgeons, anesthesiologists, and care teams know the specific diagnosis and tailor their approach accordingly. Proper pre-op planning, surgical technique modifications, and post-op care can make a major difference in outcomes—and help avoid preventable complication

A few medical experts and patients advocates created resources to assist in surgery preparation and potential warnings required for any hospitalization when you have EDS.

  • The EDS awareness nonprofit, Chronic Pain Partners, published a detailed Surgery Prep Guide for patients, which is a great resource for tips on ensuring you are well prepared and cared for.
  • Leslie Russek,DPT, PhD created an intensive Hospitalization Precautions Guide for EDS/HSD Patients that is very helpful.
  • Print a complete EDS Emergency Cards with your personal needs and information.
  • Most importantly, speak up to your care providers, provider writteninstruction on h ow to manage your care using alternatives.

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