Can Someone With Ehlers-Danlos Undergo Shoulder Reduction Surgery?

Q: Dr. Eppley, Hello, I am interested in getting shoulder narrowing surgery and wanted to know if you are aware of and prepare for any complications that may arise in patients with hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome. Or would you be against performing surgery on hypermobile patients? Just wanted to know your thoughts on this.

A: I think the question is whether Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome affects bone and its capability to heal if exposed to trauma. My research takes me to a 2017 study which evaiuated the bone structure in EDS patients and came to this study conclusion:

‘This study has identified a tendency of EDS patients to fracture, have low bone mass and abnormal bone structure. The aetiology is likely to be multifactorial, with an inherited structural element, accentuated by immobility or reduced exercise.’

This would indicate that performing elective shoulder narrowing surgery in EDS patients definitely has increased risk over non-EDS patients….and certainly could not be recommended.

Dr. Barry Eppley

World-Renowned Plastic Surgeon